Yeah, going from being a desk jockey to an electrician or "grunt" is a tough transition

So is highschool student to electrician

Kbrown, make sure you get a really, really comfortable pair of boots, Redwings are great, but pricey, I'd suggest walking a few miles in the bots to break them in before heading out to the jobsite, all cotton clothing is often recommended, it's comfortable, afordable, and fire-resistant. Many members on this forum will tell you of joints and backs that ache constantly from years of labor, if you're on your knees a lot, get kneepads, try to minimise stooping, and never lift with the back, always the knees. you'll be sore the first few days, get lots of rest and take some Advil, you'll adjust. Stretching before and after the job is often looked upon strangely, but it helps.

One thing I've told a couple of my friends that are going into the field is: don't let them turn you into a drone, if a drone you become, a drone you will forever be, ask quick questions of the more experienced sparkies on the site, try and learn as much as you can, many foremen appreciate curiosity, some will tell you you're "wasting their time" and tell you to shut up, that means they're a bad boss, but it doesn't sound like you're in a position to change jobs right now, so try and learn as much as you can on your own, use this site as a resource, read the old posts, and don't be afraid to ask questions, most of the people on this site are ready and willing to answer almost any quesiton, and the members have centuries of collective knowledge.

If anyone ever tells you you must work something hot, politely refuse, if they fire you you will have means of recourse, it's better to be unemployed than dead, also be careful with heights and around sharp objects, falls will kill you just as dead as electrocution, and cuts are a huge hazard, we have to work around tons of sharp edges and tools.

Many people in the trades look down upon those with "cushy" desk jobs, and you may well experience some additional prejudice, in addition to the normal ribbing the FNG gets. Just remember, your career experience doesn't mean jack, and if anyone tells you and diferent, calls you a pansy, smile, and prove them wrong, it's attitude and motivation that count, and you sound like you know that darn well.

Stay healthy, stay motivated, and you'll make it, keep in touch, and drop by the chat rooms.

Good Luck
-Will