Looking ahead into my future about three weeks from now

I'm SUPER EXCITED to be able to spend some time at boot camp, learning stuff, meeting new people, getting my hands dirty, etc.! I've been poking around the threads and podcasts trying to piece together what I might expect, and perhaps I haven't come across this information yet (forgive me if I'm asking the same stuff a hundred people before me have already asked), but here are a few things I've thought about that I could really use some feedback on:
I understand that very basic food staples are provided,  so how does one go about making sure one doesn't starve?
While I don't anticipate spending a whole lotta time on my phone or computer, I would like to be able to check in with the fam a few times during my stay. What is the situation with access to the outside world through WiFi, etc.?

Please tell me if I'm understanding correctly how boot camp basically works:
New boots spend some time after arrival to meet folks and feel out who needs help with stuff that I'm compatible with in my interests and abilities. These folks would kinda be taking me under wing to show me the ropes,  as my confidence and understanding of what I can do to benefit the community.

I'm pretty much going to be a longer-termed person's little biych

That's all i have for now

Hi Wendy;  Welcome to Permies!
I know nothing much about boot camp. Other than it is a good experience for folks.
Here is a link to the Frequently asked question page about boot camp.

https://wheaton-labs.com/bootcamp/#FAQ  

Maybe you have already been there.

Thanks, Thomas.

What is an acceptable form of bug repellent? Is there a natural formula that folks use? Is what one would get at a store acceptable? I don't want to be ignorant; I honestly have no idea if what I usually use is eco-friendly.

Hi Wendy, current boot here.

Provided food is everything you need, the only thing not provided is meat and dairy products. So if you can't live without those, bring some with! Other than that we eat really well and entirely organic

Wifi is available at base camp, it's slow but functional and generally fast enough for video chatting (depending how many other people are trying to use it at the same time)

As for how the boot camp works, we pretty much all do the same thing, or break of into smaller groups. Like we'll all spend the morning mulching, or half of us will mulch and half will plant trees. Something like that. We are definitely happy to teach people who aren't familiar with a particular task.


As for bug spray, I would say the one you posted is probably... not acceptable. I think anything with deet in it is going to be a no no (I think that's a good policy for here, and everywhere else). Mosquitoes aren't usually an issue here, I've been here two months and gotten maybe one or two bites. If you really want to bring bugspray, something lemon eucalyptus based like this is probably your best bet.


Looking forward to meeting you!

The best bug repellant is a lack of bugs.  

I think i get one mosquito bite every two or three years.

Fred said he might get one or two per year.

Awesome! Thanks, Clayton and Paul. Here in Austin, the 'squiters are relentless, and I have the scars to prove it! Glad I won't have to contend with them while I'm there!