Anything You Wish You'd Known Before Applying or Joining? Myth Busting: Army Edition

Thinking about joining the Army? Got questions? You’re not alone. Every future soldier wonders what life will really be like, and serving soldiers often say there are things they wish they’d known before applying - so asking questions is the best way to find out. That’s why we’ve created this myth-busting guide: to answer your biggest questions, clear up misconceptions, and help you feel confident and excited about starting your Army journey. 

This blog is part of our myth busting series, aimed at reducing anxiety and challenging stereotypes. Watch the video where we’re diving into the things soldiers wish they’d known before joining.

The Army Has Evolved

What better way to get to the things that matter than  hearing the honest answers from serving soldiers as they reflect on their own journeys. One shares: 

“The Army has evolved since Dad’s Army… it’s a modern Army, structured around its people.” 

Another adds: 

“I didn’t realise there were so many different Corps. I wish I’d known you could promote into different job types as well.” 

These are real voices, giving you real insight into what Army life is like – beyond the myths.

What Do Soldiers Wish They’d Known? 

Here are some of the most common things soldiers say they wish they’d known before joining: 

• There’s more than one path: You don’t have to stick to one job forever. You can move between roles, change jobs, and grow in new directions. 

• Talking to people helps: Make the most of opportunities to ask questions, challenge stereotypes and explore the unknown. 

• Insight days are gold: Attending insight days and other Corps events can help you understand what roles are out there – and which ones might suit you best. 

• Army life is full-on, but rewarding: From early mornings to tough courses, it’s not always easy. But it builds resilience, confidence, and pride. 

• You don’t have to act like a movie character: The Army isn’t about pretending to be someone else. It’s about being yourself and finding your place. 

What Can You Do Now?

If you’re thinking about applying, here are four simple steps to help you feel ready: 

1. Watch the full video to hear directly from soldiers

2. Explore all the roles available

3. Attend Army events, both face-to-face and online

4. Ask questions – there’s no such thing as a silly one

Final Thoughts

Joining the Army is a big decision, and it’s normal to feel unsure. But the more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel. As one soldier puts it: 

“You’d be really surprised as to what roles there are in the Army that you never knew actually existed.” 

So, take your time, explore your options, and speak to our recruiters and people who’ve been there. You don’t have to know everything – but you will learn more than you think.

Our Myth Busting Series

Keep an eye out for the next video of the series, where we learn about different routes into the Army - 'What's the difference between joining as a Regular or a Reserve?' Or follow us on our YouTube channel for more videos.