I know someone currently serving 5 years in a medium security facility and he writes to me about his experiences.

He said the worst was the transfer facility that you stay in between jail and prison. It's like a holding facility basically and you are mixed with all kinds of people. He heard that someone was stabbed in the eye with a pencil but it could have just been a rumor.

He hasn't heard of any rapes because there are plenty of willing participants. Rape is more of a power tactic, and most people will just fight if it comes down to that. The most common reason they go on lockdown is for contraband, mostly weed and cigarettes.

He says the hardest part of prison is the boredom and planning for life post-release. He is not in general pop and is separated along with other inmates who committed similar crimes. His podmates are typically under 40 white guys but there were some seniors. He reads a lot and is learning to draw as well as taking advantage of all the classes he can. Everyone has to work so he's been assigned a job as prep chef and makes about 40 cents an hour. He buys stationery and snacks with this and is currently saving up for a tv. He works out a lot. Everyone does because its a good way to keep busy and keep healthy, and they feel that one of the few total freedoms they have is the freedom to be as fit or unfit as they please. Honestly he seems more stressed about living live as a convicted felon. Prison is the easy part. It's trying to support himself and deal with the ramifications of his conviction that will be hard.

He said if he could have done anything differently starting out, he would have gotten a lawyer and not trusted the DA to represent him to the fullest extent of his/her ability. He got 5 years and a buttload of other fines and stipulations for something that most people get probation for. So seriously, if at all possible, get a lawyer.