Expert: John L - 8/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi John,

A question for you in regards to living arrangements with the Coast Guard.  What can I expect for my first station? Under what conditions must I live on "base?" and will I have roommates? Will I be monitored 24/7? Can I go to church on my own time?

I'd appreciate any feedback on this..

Erica.

ANSWER: Living quarters vary station to station.  You can do anything you want on your time off that you please, you are not restricted in anyway but distance away form base without a pass.  Roomates vary on facilities.  You are not monitored 24/7 unless you screw up on off time and get in trouble.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello again,

Thank you so much for responding to my questions so quickly.  A couple more for you, if you would, please..

1.) I heard I could bring my pet along with me.  Is this true?

2.) If I'm stressed out during my serve, is it possible to get individual counseling, and is so, how soon can I receive it? Is there an unwritten rule where I can only get so much help? Will they kick me out if I receive counseling?

Thanks again,
Erica.

Answer
If you do not live in barracks, you can have a pet, but not in barracks.

Stress can be dealt with in many ways, but if it effects your performance, they can and will kick you out for menatal disorder.  It is ok to talk to someone about stress, but make sure you still do your job to 100%, just dont do it during boot camp.  They will kick you quickly.