Choosing the right school isn’t always easy, but Camden Military Academy (CMA) provides
more than just academics—it offers structure, leadership opportunities, and a close-knit
brotherhood that lasts a lifetime. Jayden Williams, a senior from Columbia, South Carolina, has
spent four years at CMA and has seen firsthand how it can shape a student’s future.
Following in His Brother’s Footsteps
For Jayden, Camden wasn’t an unfamiliar name—his older brother was a CMA graduate and
encouraged him to check it out.
“My grades were fine, but I think I really needed the structure,” he shared.
Jayden started with Camden’s summer school program, and he quickly realized it was the right
fit. “I ended up liking it, and I’ve been here ever since.”
From Nervous to Confident: Finding a Brotherhood
One of Jayden’s biggest concerns before arriving was making friends. But that worry quickly
disappeared.
“When I realized that everybody’s going through the same thing, it’s not so bad,” he said.
At Camden, cadets form strong bonds by living, eating, and training together.
“When you’re in your company, you guys do basically everything together. You guys sleep
together, you eat together, you do everything together. So, I thought it was easy to make
friends.”
That built-in support system helps students adjust quickly and develop lifelong friendships.
Sharpening Study Habits for College
Jayden wasn’t struggling academically before Camden, but he acknowledges that his study skills
have improved significantly.
“We have things like study hall and tutorial,” he explained. “Tutorial is when you can go see a
teacher if you’re struggling a little bit in the class, which I think helps us a lot.”
Study hall, which is supervised for an hour and a half in the barracks, has also been a game-
changer.
Now, as a senior preparing for college, Jayden is confident in his academic abilities.
“I feel like as I go off to college, I’ve definitely gained those study habits, especially in the
college classes with Dr. Davis. He really drives on his lectures and stuff, and I think that’s a really
good help.”
Exploring the Outdoors Through Scouts
Academics and leadership are key at Camden but so is getting outside and giving back.
“I joined Scouts mainly because I like hiking and stuff,” Jayden said. “I think it’s a great way to
get off campus as well.”
He’s now working on his Eagle Scout project, which has involved helping at a local
Revolutionary War Park, where he and others have built benches and other projects for the
community.
Discover Your Potential at Camden
At Camden Military Academy, students gain more than just a diploma—they develop discipline,
leadership, and friendships that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for academic structure,
personal growth, or a community that feels like family, Camden could be the perfect place to
unlock your full potential.
Are you ready to see if CMA is the right fit for you? Schedule a visit and take the first step
toward success!
– LTC Casey Robinson (Dean of Enrollment & Administration)
