Forman Scholar Ka’Nijha Johnson Ready to Dive Headfirst into the Medical Field

Growing up surrounded by family members in the medical field, Ka’Nijha Johnson has always been drawn to the practice of health care. She says serving others is in her DNA. Destined to become a fellow medical professional, the Forman Scholar is studying Health Sciences at Stockton University along either the pre-med or dental track, with the ultimate goal of improving the health and wellbeing of those in her community.

“I’ve been fascinated by science ever since I was a little kid, especially because it’s a subject that has so much potential to do good in this world,” said Ka’Nijha. “I’ve always known that I wanted to build a career premised on helping others, and medicine is the perfect vehicle to make that measurable impact in others’ lives.”

Throughout her time at Salem High, Ka’Nijha excelled in her STEM (shorthand for the collective disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) coursework and cultivated a knack for formulating real-world solutions by applying problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Math had always been a favorite subject, but after taking several biology-focused courses, she decided to take her collegiate studies in a different direction.

“Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy solving equations and working with numbers. I always feel such a sense of satisfaction when I am able to methodically work my way through a complex, multi-step problem and successfully arrive at a solution,” said Ka’Nijha.

Aside from studying medicine, Ka’Nijha is thrilled to continue fulfilling another passion, running, by competing on Stockton’s varsity track and field team. She plans to represent the Ospreys in her favorite events, the 100- and 200-meter races, as well as jogging around campus whenever she has a free moment to spare.

“This may sound crazy to some people, but running is my personal stress-reliever. I can just throw on my sneakers, pop in my earbuds and let myself go,” said Ka’Nijha. “When I’m in competition mode, though, the adrenaline rush is incomparable.”

Although track and field will always remain near and dear to her heart, Ka’Nijha misses the times she spent rooting for her fellow athletes on Salem High’s cheer squad and passionately playing defense on the school’s basketball team. She retains an immense amount of pride in her hometown community, especially now as she’s able to look back and reflect upon all of the support and encouragement she’s enjoyed from so many throughout her life.

“I remember walking up to the stage during graduation practice last spring. In an instant, my entire life as a Salem Ram flashed before my eyes. I realized just how lucky I’ve been to grow up in such a nurturing, positive community full of individuals who have always wanted nothing but the best for me,” said Ka’Nijha.

Ka’Nijha may be well into her freshman year at Stockton, but she can still recall her experience visiting various colleges with ease, not to mention the various emotions she experienced throughout the search process. Regardless of what happens, she says, patience is a virtue.

“Good things always come to those who wait. While it might not feel like it when you’re in the middle of the process, everything will work out just fine in the end. You’ll find your fit,” Ka’Nijha said. “The entire college admissions journey in and of itself can be stressful, challenging and a lot of work. So don’t feel like you need to rush the process. Instead, do as the 76ers like to say: ‘Trust the Process’.”