The allure of the uniform knows no slack, even in times like the present, marked by multiple international tensions: it is no coincidence that in recent years, on average, over 55 candidates have regularly participated in competitions for the Military Academies, approximately 40 to join the Army, 35 to become police officers, and more than 15 for the role of Commissioner.
Numbers that are destined to remain so in the future, given that currently 1 high school student in 4 is interested in this type of career and 6% have already decided that this will be the path to take when they grow up, as revealed by the latest edition of the Observatory on Uniformed Professions, created by the Skuola.net portal in collaboration with Nissolino Corsi, a leading center in Italy for preparation for military competitions.
A guide for aspiring "uniforms"
Unfortunately, however, this heightened interest isn't always accompanied by an equal awareness of the challenges that await them, so the specialized student portal decided to consult two experts from the educational institution to draw up a list of tips to put into practice immediately, given that the competitive exam season is just now getting into full swing.
Here, then, are the 10 tips developed by the Dr. Rachele Tenerini, tutor specialized in humanities, and the Dr. Vincenzo Mormile, former Navy psychologist and specialist in psychological aptitude testing.
- Define your competition objective
Knowing the various options—Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri, Guardia di Finanza, State Police, Penitentiary Police, Fire Brigade—and what it means to wear the different uniforms, helps you choose the path best suited to your inclinations.
Basically, each of them offers courses for every level or qualification. However, there are differences between the various calls for applications, in terms of selection procedures, courses offered, and, not least, age limits. Having a clear objective is, therefore, the first real tool for maintaining motivation and tackling the preparation with precision.
- Don't wait until the last minute: always plan ahead.
Many candidates only begin studying after the announcement is made, but those who start early have a huge advantage.
Starting to practice early allows you to better assimilate the information, test more simulations, and arrive at the tests with greater confidence.
- Don't neglect physical preparation
Athletic tests are a fundamental part of military competitions. Physical, as well as mental, training must therefore be integrated into the schedule from the beginning of preparation and should not be postponed.
Physical activity also helps the mind: it improves concentration, stress management, and self-confidence. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine, alternating study with exercise, is therefore always a good idea.
- Focus on key subjects and work on (your) weak points
Each competition has its own program. Therefore, it can be helpful to study previous announcements to understand which topics are most frequently asked and which require more practice.
However, it's wrong to focus on what we do well: addressing our weaknesses with targeted exercises is the key to being ready for anything.
It might interest you
- Study with strategy, not by heart
Many competitions no longer publish official databases. Therefore, it's often not enough (and unnecessary) to memorize answers, perhaps from previous editions.
It's better to take those questions and learn to think about them, understanding the logic behind the questions and getting used to tackling new ones. The goal is to develop mental flexibility and quick thinking.
- Simulate the test, as if you were already in the classroom
Training with timed simulations, however, remains a wise choice. This way, you recreate real-world test conditions as closely as possible.
Practicing in controlled stress situations also helps manage anxiety and improve concentration: each simulation is a further step towards safety on test day.
- Keep your spirits high, even on bad days.
There will be days when studying doesn't seem enough or the simulations don't go well. The important thing is not to get discouraged.
Mistakes or setbacks help you improve and are part of the journey: in this type of selection process, it is consistency, rather than talent, that distinguishes those who make it from all the others.
- Don't compare, get inspired
Social media, forums, online groups, and all other forms of "analog" contact with other candidates in your competition can be a valuable source of useful information, but at the same time, they can also prove misleading.
You should be wary of unofficial information and not be influenced by comparisons with others. Everyone has their own path and their own timeframe. Instead, it's better to use other candidates as a source of inspiration, not comparison.
- Practice communicating clearly and coherently
During psychological aptitude tests and interviews with experts, it's not just what you say to the person you're speaking to that matters. How you say it is also crucial. The key is to be able to express yourself calmly and clearly, without putting on an act.
To do this, you need to practice during your exam preparations to tackle this step. Being consistent with your personality and demonstrating emotional balance is the best way to convey trustworthiness.
- Find (and tell) why they chose you (and why you chose them)
The Armed Forces and Police Forces are looking for highly motivated individuals with a genuine sense of duty. Reflecting on your goals, the values that drive you, and what you expect from this career is the first step, even before applying.
Showing maturity and awareness is often what makes the difference in the selection process.
Choose the channel you want to subscribe to