I'm gearing up to take CLS in a month at Camp Pendleton. How should I prepare? What was your experience?

It’s going to be crawl, walk, run. Your instructor will teach you as if you know nothing at all, because you probably don’t. Do not stress over the course. Pay close attention, take the training serious and most importantly, enjoy it!

Relax and just be willing to do some new things. This course is not difficult.

Study Trauma. CPR, Stop the bleeding and bandaging.
Practice your procedures until you can do each item three times without error.
Practice splints, and immobilization of the neck.
Talk to your local fire & rescue at the FD for practical tips.
Get your 9 line down - best way is to write down the information for reading using several people's information and injuries' until you can rattle it off without error.
Learn to triage.
Learn to set up an LZ / Know CCP procedures / practice navigation and map reading (coordinates)
When you're studying and things get to be too much., set your clock and take 20 minute nap.
Don't quit and keep your sense of humor.

YER NOT A DOCTOR - REMEMBER - YOUR JOB IS TO STABILZE AND EVACUATE THE SOLDIER AS SOON AS FEASIBLE.