Catching Up With Forman Scholar Ka’Nijha Johnson!
Forman Scholar Ka’Nijha Johnson graduated from Stockton University this spring with a degree in health science and disability studies – after only three years of study! Now that she’s spent some time shadowing a general dentist and dental hygienist, Ka’Nijha plans to enter a dental program and become even more immersed in the field. We recently caught up with Ka’Nijha to learn more about her college experience and her plans for the future.
For you, what was the biggest difference between high school and college?
In college, you’re all on your own. There are no parents or teachers watching your every move. Instead, you are in charge of taking care of yourself – academically, physically, emotionally, etc. There’s definitely pros and cons to that. And it also takes some getting used to because it’s very easy to slack off knowing no one is constantly telling you what to do. Over the past few years, I’ve had to get a lot more disciplined about the choices I make, but I know I’m now better prepared to enter life after graduation.
How did you overcome any adversity you faced while in college?
Like I said, college wasn’t easy. But in those challenging moments, reaching out to those in my resource network – whether they were professors, advisors or classmates – was critical. The Foundation also served as a tremendous resource, and I don’t think I would have made it through the last few years without them. Ms. Kim and Ms. Jasmin were especially helpful. They regularly checked in on me and ensured I was making good progress in school – not just academically but also socially and emotionally.
What’s one thing you know now that you wished you knew during your first semester?
I had no idea that one course could benefit two or three requirements at once. If I had known that, I wouldn’t have taken so many courses each semester. My advice for any college student is this: Check in with your advisors before each semester, and make sure that you actually need to take every class you’ve included on your schedule. Work smarter, not harder!
What’s your most memorable moment from your time at Stockton?
I absolutely loved spending time with my friend, Katirah. Together, we held many study sessions and sleepovers, shopped in our free time, and cooked for one another. Throughout our time at Stockton, we deepened our bond as we got to know each other better, and I look forward to seeing where our friendship takes us in the future.
Why are organizations such as the Forman Acton Foundation so important?
The best thing about the Foundation is once you’re a Scholar, you’re always a Scholar. This means the support and assistance I’ve received since before I graduated from Salem High School back in 2021 will continue not only as I embark on this next chapter of life but also as I grow in my career and as a young adult. They will always be committed to helping me set, reach and achieve my goals. They will always have my best interests at heart.