FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadet Summer Training is slowly ending as cadets become one step closer to their Army future. Their time at CST serving as a reminder of all the training and effort they’ve put into their aspirations.

“CST is a great opportunity. I think it really helps you grow [and] understand where you are as a leader,” said Cadet Owyn Johnson, a University of North Georgia student, assigned to 7^th Regiment, Advanced Camp.

At first, Johnson thought camp was a little hectic. However, the more time that passed the more fun she had. For her, having the opportunity to make so many friends and be a part of a really good squad made her happy. While the actual training exercises also sparked a bit of fun for her. Johnson specifically stated that the qualifying marksmanship event was her favorite. At this exercise, she was able to score pretty high and that accomplishment made her proud. Although not every event is bound to go how we’d like it to.

“I told myself it is what it is,” said Johnson, “It doesn’t define me as a person [based on] what grade I got. So, I learned to just talk myself down from that edge when you’re getting really emotional [and] upset about something. You just have to take a couple of deep breaths.”

Struggling with the idea of not meeting her expectations, Johnson found herself trying to remind herself that a grade doesn’t define her efforts. In keeping steady, she was able to calm her emotions and push past this challenge.

As she finishes reflecting on her time at CST, Johnson mentions that she is interested in branching into the medical field. For a while she wanted to become a surgeon but figured that it might not work out because she is a little squeamish. Instead, she decided to study kinesiology in school because she loved athletics and thought it would fit good with her medical interests.

“I’m gonna be a squad leader for my specialty unity, Blue Ridge Rifles, at the University of North Georgia,” said Johnson, “then I’m also gonna be an S4 attack for this program we have called Leadership Development Program for our MS3s coming to camp.”

As she prepares to head back to school, Johnson is excited to begin her new leadership positions. The opportunity allowing her to finish strong and grow her skills while helping her fellow cadets.

“I definitely know there’s things I have to work on as far as my leadership potential just from being here and feedback I’ve gotten from my friends and my cadre,” said Johnson, “So, I’m excited to work on it and be a better leader.”

As she nears the academic finish line, Johnson is excited to graduate college and commission as an officer. Ready to take in all she can before the next chapter of her Army career begins.