Page 90 - Wish Stream Year of 2016

Overseas Of cer Cadet Perspective
OCdt Hussein
Overseas Of cer Cadets bring a unique aspect to every platoon. It is the chance for British Of cer Cadets to be exposed to and
learn about different cultures. From the over- seas Of cer Cadet’s perspective, it is important to engage with everyone in the platoon and not limit yourself by only interacting with fellow over- seas Of cer Cadets who are easier to relate to. It can be uncomfortable at rst, but it is crucial to become part of the team. Coming from differ- ent backgrounds might make you stand out at the start of the term, but you quickly realise that everyone on the commissioning course is going through the same training, with very similar goals and aspirations.
Prior to my attendance at Sandhurst, I received a great deal of advice from other family members, several of whom, including my father, have previ- ously attended the commissioning course. These were centred on ef ciency, supporting other Of cer Cadets, and trusting the permanent staff.
A common factor that was part of all the advice given to me was the importance of being as ef - cient as possible, especially during the rst ve weeks. Any spare moment that I had, I would try and work on personal administration, ensure my room was spotless and ready for the next inspection, work on my boots, or check that my block jobs were done well. However, they warned me to be careful not to jump too far ahead. Most things are progressive, and if your focus is too far ahead in the future, you will end up working on something you do not need, and consequently waste valuable time.
The advice that my father, HM King Abdullah II of Jordan, underscored the most was to be there for your colleagues and fellow Of cer Cadets and support them through the time at RMAS. During the toughest times of the commission- ing course, they will ultimately be what will push you through, and you will do the same for them. This, as in His Majesty’s case, will lead to lifelong bonds which are established during those times in the commissioning course.
Every Of cer Cadet at some point during their time here will question the need to do certain
The Overseas Of cer Cadets of 27 Platoon Normandy Company. From left to right: OCdt Schillkowski (Germany), OCdt Sharpe (Jamaica), OCdt
Ssonko (Uganda) and the author.
things, or feel worried about something. My father warned me of that before coming here but told me to always remember that I am not the rst Of cer Cadet going through RMAS. The Academy has been here for hundreds of years and the experience gained over that much time and the application of various training methods shows that the programme has been studied and constantly adjusted and improved. The staff running the course are the best that the British Army has to offer and will bring out the best in the Of cer Cadets. Although it is a challenging course, it is set up for Of cer Cadets to succeed. Therefore, any time you have a worry, or ques- tion the need to do something, you must remind yourself that there is a reason behind everything.
Those are the main pieces of advice that stuck with me during the rst ve weeks, and will undoubtedly remain on my mind throughout the commissioning course. From my own personal experience, I realised that there can be many ups and downs during the time you spend at RMAS. At times, you can feel absolutely miser- able, but within the same day, or even a couple of hours, you will feel happy with what you are doing and proud that you are on this commis- sioning course. My advice for Of cer Cadets going through the rst ve weeks would be to be patient when things get particularly demanding or tedious, as things will get better sooner than you think.
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