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VIEWPOINT OF A TEXAS CHALLENGE ACADEMY CADET
When I started at Texas ChalleNGe Academy, I was full of self-doubt and discouragement. I had felt this way about myself for as long as I could remember. I am the youngest of three on my mom’s side. I was my dad’s only daughter.
I am originally from New Jersey, where I spent all of my childhood. For the longest it was just me and my father, Jermiah. Education had always been enforced in my childhood, mostly from my dad’s sister. She always tried to push me to my limits with my learning when I became unmotivated and stubborn. She constantly reminded me of how hard life would become and how it would be without an education and God in my life.
I never really listened to her words, or should I say took into consideration what she was saying until I hit my freshmen year of high school. Two years ago, I was so lost in my life and education was the last thing on my mind. I had just lost my father, and I was constantly getting in trouble at school and at home. I was looking for an escape from my own life, not knowing that education is my escape.
Following the passing of my father, I moved to Houston, Texas to live with my older sister Shadaia. She saw this light and potential in me, but I couldn’t see it in myself. I was a product of my environment, but she didn’t let me keep that mindset for long. She pushed me to my limits every day, knowing I could be better than just average.
However, me being me, I always had a response for everything and wanted things my way all the time. This is the reason I was sent to Texas Challenge Academy. Here at TCA, I am trying to learn to adjust to real life issues. I am learning how to adapt and overcome all the struggles and setbacks that were thrown at me from a young age.
While doing this I am learning to take control of my own mind. I have to keep challenging myself everyday by setting a new goal. Although coming to TCA wasn’t a goal I personally set for myself, I’m glad to have been given this opportunity. Being here has made me realize so much about myself and those around me.
