Question:
Hi to all...passed the CDL test on Thurs. and got my truck assignment today. It's a 2001 Volvo with a brand spanking new engine. That worked out good. Got a load to pick up tomorrow at 6:30pm here in Montana and going to Cedar(edit! embarassment!) Rapids, IA. Yeah, it's just a bit scary, but I was out there for some time before my formal education here at WS, so I do have some idea of what the drill is and what to expect. I am very happy and very excited! I haven't worked for over a month, so this run is a good lick as well...Now I have to go pack up and fill my truck with my plethura of stuffs. Thanks to all that offered words of encouragement and for all of the info here even if I have to double strain it!
Best wishes to y'all and be safe (I will do the same, for sure!)
Linda

Answer:
Best of luck.
But remember, the day you quit being a student of the road is the day you cease having any business driving a truck (or anything else).
The best drivers never quit learning. The worst think they can't learn anything else.
This holds true for life, not just driving.
Answer:

Precious advice, that takes on new meanings a couple hundred-thousand miles fom now. This may be the most important thing you've read here. Remember it.

Answer:
You are so right, Highwayman....and I didn't say no longer a student to imply that I had learned all I need to know in four short weeks. It is all a wonderful learning process for sure.
By the by, I am not going to Grand Rapids, it's Cedar Rapids! Good thing I looked before I took off! I am going to plan my trip tonight....

Answer:

UGH...Cedar Rapids....
Answer:
No No. The "learning" thing wasn't to knock you. Not at all.
Highwayman's statement is your diploma into the real world. He gave it to you out of respect. Some folks, you don't even bother trying to explain it to. You, on the other hand, have been chosen as worthy to receive the true secret of driving. Don't worry about it now. Pull it out in a year and think about it fresh. You'll be amazed how profound and brilliant it is, after you've been doing this a while.
Very best of luck.