FORT KNOX, Ky. –  When Cadet Herge Monga arrived at Cadet Summer Training, he had one goal in mind, to not let the other cadets in his regiment know he was prior enlisted.

“I do value my time as an enlisted, but right now my focus is on learning to be an officer,” Monga said.

Per the Army values there are many key characteristics that make a leader, but to Cadet Monga assigned to 9th Regiment, Advanced Camp, the one he executes the most is integrity.

“There are some qualities you can take as an NCO to the officer route, but I feel like there is a clear difference to where I just want to suck in as much knowledge from the cadets around me.”

While enlisted, Monga served as a former automated logistical specialist and paratrooper.  During that time, one of his commanders inspired him to be an officer based on the respect the commander showed everyone.

Now studying psychology at Arizona State University, Monga wants to continue to serve others by hoping to branch in civil affairs.

“With civil affairs, I will have the opportunity to go to less fortunate countries or even less fortunate states and help them,” Monga said.

Monga had many moments in his life that influenced him to civil affairs.

Monga’s sister had a psychological episode and while this was a scary moment in his life, it led him to the path he is on now.

Then in high school a sergeant came to one of Monga’s classes and spoke about his time helping kids in Afghanistan. This led Monga to wanting a career in not only service to his country, but to people.

“I love civil affairs, I love psychology, I want to work in child trauma and the military would be a good way to get into that.”