I Am Going To Swift Driving Academy Monday What Should I Expect. And Some Does And Donts

I am going to swift driving academy in crystal lake IL this week. what are some things I should expect? what are some does and don't? Any help or advice would be appreciated. thanks in advance

This is not strictly advice for Swift's school as I didn't go there, but more like CDL school/new driver advice in general.

Expect to feel very rushed. You will have to learn a lot in a very short amount of time. This is not a bad thing, but if you're not prepared for it it could very well be your downfall. Start studying the High Road Training Program If you haven't already. Do not expect there to be any handholding, because there won't be. You are an adult and as such they will expect you to be able to study and manage your time effectively.

On that note, do not waste any class time smoking, playing on your phone, talking with other students, etc. This goes double for any time spent in the truck/yard. You will have precious little of it to begin with and you will need every second of it to pass the exam. If you're in the yard and it's not your turn to back/drive, find a truck that's sitting and practice your pretrip, or use the excellent Pre-Trip Study Guide here if one isn't available.

Dress and behave professionally at all times. You don't have to wear a suit, but vulgar tshirts and baggy pants can be left at home. Remember that this is the company you will be working for, not just your school. Often times your first impression will be the only one you get; make it a good one. Do not be late, not even by a minute. Do not forget to bring anything you need. If they gave you a list, triplecheck to make sure you've packed all of it. Respect your fellow students and your instructors.

There's more, but I think you get the gist. Take this seriously and you will reap the rewards. Treat it with apathy and you will have a hard time succeeding. Oh, and have fun! You're on your way to being a truck driver, and it's going to be a very exciting (and at times frustrating) few months.

You know you get the free hotel room, but you need to feed yourself.

You will probably feel a lot of pressure, and even that the training is inadequate. It's planned that way. The goal of the school (almost any school) is to get you ready to take and pass the CDL skills test. That's it. You'll get more training with your mentor.

You'll be standing outside a lot, so dress for standing around outside. Bring a bottle of water if you tend to get thirsty.

If you've read enough training diaries, you'll see that backing is what drives everyone crazy. Three weeks of frustration. Just learn from your mistakes and move on each time.

Good luck in Crystal Lake!