This week, we get tips from Pvt. 1st Class Jessica Ramos, 17, a Marine who graduated from Garinger High. Jessica joined the Marine Corps in August, and she sends advice to our Young Achievers from her base in Pensacola, Fla. Answers have been edited.

Q: Can you tell readers why you joined the Marine Corps?

I was seeking out a challenge and something to better my life, as well as my career.

Q: Can you take us through your typical day?

I usually wake up around 0500 (5 a.m.), go eat breakfast and head off to class. Once class is finished, I usually go hang out with other Marines to play sports, eat, watch movies, etc.

Q: What is your job in the Marines?

Avionics. Pretty much what I will be doing is fixing up planes. I am actually studying how to at this moment.

Q: What has been the coolest experience in the military?

Actually living the experience of going through the hardcore boot camp and Military Combat Training (MCT). During my MCT we got to learn how to shoot seven different types of weapons. Also we learned how to clean them and how to properly handle the machine guns.

Q: What do you hope to do following the Marine Corps?

Actually, I hope to stay in the Marine Corps for some time, hopefully re-enlist a couple of times, then after that retire and be a veterinarian.

Q: What has been the greatest thing you have learned from this experience?

The No. 1 thing I learned was that everything in life is temporary - also to take chances and follow your dreams.

Q: When you're tired and don't want to work anymore, how do you get yourself to keep going?

There were many times where I found myself wanting to give up and just quit right on the spot. But what always kept me going is having the mindset that sooner or later I will move on to a different task.

Q: What has been the greatest obstacle you have had to overcome?

I believe the greatest obstacle was going to boot camp for three months. I was lonely and in stress. I believe that obstacle made me stronger not only as a person, but also as a Marine.

Q: What is a motto you tend to live by?

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

Q: What are three things everyone should always have with them?

Faith. Commitment. Values.

Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?

I have a passion to dance! I love to dance to Mexican music. It is a passion that goes through my hips and head. I started dancing when I was 12.