Sorry I almost started laughing .

Seriously, you get two checks of about $740 to cover your entire training duration. It's per diem, not pay, so shouldn't be taxable, but that's it. Uniform is payroll deducted over time ($25 per pay period after training is over). Most items are deductible, but luggage isn't, and can cost upwards of $400 for leather briefcase and metal roller bag, though you are not required to get these. Some people opt for cheaper options. Don't buy the hat unless your girlfriend thinks you look hot in it. They put you in a hotel with a roommate assigned when you show up. Hopefully, you like him (or her, if you are a girl).

Thankfully I had some other sources of income to get me through training.

You will "bid" for your base in seniority order (age) in your class, and it's based on what the company needs at the moment. If you really want a particular place, you can probably trade there pretty soon if you don't get it. Newark and Chicago tend to be more junior. Beware what you wish for - everyone is told how houston is the best and newark sucks, but you'll sit on short call reserve in Houston for a LONG time but I almost had a relief line in Newark in my second full month on reserve. Basically, if you are going to live in base bid where you want to live. If you are going to commute, consider other factors.