Almost done

We have been at Texas ChalleNGe Academy for over sixteen weeks, and while it has been a challenging program, once I accepted the challenges thrown my way, it went by very fast.

I came to TCA for structure. I never really had that in my life as for most of my life, I raised myself. Right before I came to TCA, I found a forever family that loved me, and it was very hard to come and actually leave a good family behind. This family really wanted me, so leaving so soon was tough, but I knew that I needed more structure in my life.

In the beginning when I came here, it was very hard for me to accept orders from other people since I never really had to do that. But, slowly I learned.

On March 30, I achieved my academic goal and graduated from high school. Here at TCA, the teachers push us hard to achieve our academic goals while we are here because they know we don’t have a lot of time. We just celebrated teacher appreciation week recently, and I know that I appreciate all that they did to help me and others be successful.

This program works for so many of us teens who needed structure and goals in our lives. If I could offer some advice to future cadets, it would be to live every day in the program and soak up everything you can. Try your best and don’t stop. The program is just a small part of a long life but can give you big results.

One thing that I have noticed as we are nearing the end is how cadets have stepped up their game and put their feet on the pedal, going full speed to finish. All three platoons, Charlie, Delta, and Echo have done such a great job up to this point. And to see people from all different backgrounds and places come together as a group is really amazing to see.

I can’t wait to see all of us walk across the stage on June 17. The fact that all of us who came here to TCA and finished the program shows me that we can do anything if we are determined enough.