Springroll said:
NEIP does not teach you about being a sailor...thats what NETP is for. Also, so far it hasn't taught me anything about the culture other than cleaning stations.
You need to also look at the fact that you are most likely not part of the "target" group that the program was initially intended for. You have had the experience (I am assuming) of managing a budget, buying necessary supplies for your well-being (clothes, toiletries etc), setting up a schedule/routine for yourself etc etc. Think back to what it might have been like had you been 19 and on course. Decent size paycheck every 2 weeks (which ends up just screaming for a new car or motorcycle, plus nights out boozing and buying decent meals), the influence of the not-so-savoury crowd, which could lead to alcohol, drugs etc. Even the basics of being away from mommy for the first time and not knowing how to do your laundry or which toothpaste to buy.
Yes, I realize that alot of those basics were utilized on BMQ, but there you also weren't on your own as much. I have read too many articles, seen too many messages, heard too many stories, of the kids buying new cars and smashing them into walls, or mixing with the wrong crowd and being led down the garden path. Or you get the ones that are quiet and shy, and just don't do anything because they don't know where to start. And so the base has created a program of where to start. Sure, maybe cleaning stations every night isn't going to teach you wrong from right. And maybe having to stay in to listen to lectures every other night isn't going to keep you away from the Tutor House. But it's a start. No program ever started out perfect.
Learn from it, use what you can, help the others with your own knowledge and experience and carry on. In the critique portion of the program, be sure to indicate your likes and dislikes. And provide suggestions for solutions. Those are always appreciated. Oh, and welcome to the Navy. ;D