Though these are exceptionally unprecedented times for everyone, it is even more strange for the Class of 2020. So many of the traditional “lasts” were taken away and graduation celebrations have been postponed indefinitely. While it may be easy to be upset and feel disappointed with how things are not going according to plan, the seniors of the Fighting Saints Battalion are using this time to learn adaptability and think about what they are grateful for. Continue reading below for some responses from our senior class.
Michael O’Callaghan is a social science major with an education minor from Springfield, Minnesota. He says that this extra time at home has given him perspective on what is important in life, choosing to spend time connecting with family and friends in whatever ways possible. Michael is also using his time to better his physical fitness and encouraging the underclassmen to do the same. As an armor second lieutenant, Michael will take the lessons he’s learned in adaptability to his first unit.
Jake Knudson is an environmental science major and a Chaska, Minnesota native. He has used his time at home enjoying the last few months with his college roommates and has created a gym in a neighbor’s garage. The future infantry officer encourages underclassmen to take advantage of the time they have in school: make connections, seize opportunities, and enjoy college life.
Adrian ‘AJ’ Johnson is a criminal justice major at St. Cloud State University. Hailing from North Branch, Minnesota, Adrian says that his time at home has made him grateful for the gym and as well as time with his loved ones, specifically his father. As a Minnesota National Guard Infantry officer, Adrian will use his experience in the pandemic as a lesson to teach his soldiers as well as sharpen his decision making. He states that “the coronavirus will teach me to always keep an eye on my soldiers and do what I can to make sure they are safe. My PMS [Professor of Military Science] and Cadre have been outstanding with trying to keep aware of how we are doing as Cadets and if we are taken care of. I will always treat my troops as Cadre have treated us, with humanity.”
Sara Magno is a Milwaukee, Wisconsin native and biomedical sciences major from St. Cloud State University. She says that this pandemic has given her perspective on what really is important to her: her loved ones and her health. She is grateful for the time to self-evaluate and prepare for her impending career, as well as extra time to work out and study. As a medical services officer, Sara will use her pandemic experience to ensure the health and safety of her soldiers.
Tremayne Collins is a nutrition major from Bowlus, Minnesota. He says that this pandemic has helped him reset a routine and relearn the basics. Tremayne says that he is grateful for coffee and daily runs outside in the sun. As an officer, Tremayne said that his pandemic experience has taught him the importance of a contingency plan and persevering to maintain results. He also stresses the importance of attitude by saying: “find a new normal, wherever you are in life. Change is sometimes uncontrollable, attitude is not.” See a picture below of Trey enjoying the sun and snow.
Joseph Bastian is an environmental science major from Foley, Minnesota. He says that this pandemic has made him grateful for everyday conversations with many people. Moving into his time as a Minnesota National Guard armor officer, he said he has a newfound appreciation for mental health and that checking in on his soldiers, friends, and family can prevent a lot of tragedy. Joseph says its important in times like this to look on the Brightside and try to find a silver lining in every situation.
As you can see, despite these strange circumstances these cadets are making the best of what is an unideal situation. Armor of light!
Cadet Knudson’s “inventive” PT solution
Cadet Magno’s workspace
Cadet Collins enjoying the “warm” Midwest weather.
Cadet Bastian’s workout equipment