Camp Kikiwaka-NOT

Since coming to Texas ChalleNGe Academy on Jan. 14, 2024, I have learned a lot about myself and the program. With any adjustment, there have been many challenges, especially in this four-week acclimation period.

Several of the challenges come from the time hacks we have here. The sometimes-cold, five-minute showers and having to be at formations, chow, and school at certain times can be hard, especially in a bay full of girls. But all of us are adjusting to the hacks, even though there are days that the time hacks seem overwhelming.

Sure, there are some days when I want to go home, but if I keep my motivation and determination and just follow the instructions, I know that I can complete the program. The team leaders really are here to help us, not to make our lives harder.

As CS Rodriguez says, “If you just do what is expected of you, then this place would be a lot like Camp Kikiwaka.” While that’s not entirely true, it does run easier when we do what we are supposed to do.

While I know that TCA is going to be a challenge, I know that the next four and a half months will go fast, and I can achieve the goals I set for myself.