Recall

I remember the month of May, a couple of days before my birthday. I was stoned out of my mind while I introduced myself to Mrs. Bluntson, a case manager at Texas ChalleNGe Academy, Previously, my recruiter, Mr. Williams had told me about the program, and I had filled out the application. I knew that TCA could help me change physically and mentally. That is why I applied. But when Mrs. Bluntson asked me if I really wanted to come to the program, I told her that I wasn’t sure, but that if I got accepted, I would put in 100% of my effort.

Toward the end of my interview, my recruiter Mr. Williams told me that I was accepted and told me he would see me on July 16. And so it would begin.

As you read this, it is now December, and I will graduate from here on Dec. 16. I have learned to appreciate both the small and the big things here. For example, the sunrises in the morning and the thumps of our combat boots stomping the ground in sync are things I will never forget. I never thought I would like things like marching, but I do. Those are the small things.

There are things that have been difficult like living with 28 other girls. That has been my biggest challenge, but even with all the arguments, we have come together like sisters. We may act at times like we hate each other, but we know we need each other in the end. The friendships I have made here are some of the big things I appreciate.

Before coming into this program, I had a lot of issues with my parents and felt as if I had a lack of support at home. Coming here with Cadre Supervisors Vela and Moore and my team leaders Belvin, Hunt, Ambeau and Thomas has been a blessing.

I am grateful for every conversation I have had with them and for everything they have taught me. They have truly touched my heart. Although TL Thomas has left TCA, she became a mother figure and changed my mindset for the better.

Looking back, I am glad that I applied here and that I put in the effort to complete TCA. It has changed me in more ways than I thought it would.