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VIEWPOINT OF A TEXAS CHALLENGE ACADEMY CADET
When my mother told me about Texas ChalleNGe Academy a few months ago, she said it would give me opportunities to better myself. At first, I was not sure about the program, but I decided to come to get more structure and discipline in my life. It would also give me a better opportunity to earn my high school diploma.
When I first arrived, the first thing I thought about was how my mom and sisters would do without me because I am the only young man in my family. There were days in the beginning that I really wanted to leave, but I have stayed.
At first, some cadets’ emotions got the better of them, and they would get mad over something small. This would lead to shouting and in some cases, pushing or showing or even fights. Sometimes I even wanted to yell at them, but I learned to not let their actions get the better of me.
But here we are in week ten and things have calmed down a lot. We have settled into the routines and know what is expected of us. Cadets that did not get along in the past are now getting along. My eyes have opened up, and I see the real opportunities that I have here.
I still get homesick every once in a while, and I cannot wait to see my family on family day. I also know I will complete this challenge and make my mom and sisters proud.
