Desiderio Walker

Desiderio Walker can pinpoint when he went from being a child to becoming a man.

"My first real experience of being a leader was during my basic training for the Georgia Army National Guard," the resident of Moreland, Georgia, said. "I know I entered manhood when I heard others talk about my leadership."

Walker uses those same leadership skills at the University of North Georgia (UNG) in two student-led organizations. He is a cadet specialist in the Corps of Cadets and president of the Black Student Union (BSU) on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

Walker, a junior pursuing a degree in sociology, joined both for similar reasons. They offer him a solid foundation, a purpose and a sense of belonging.

"They provided me different perspectives," Walker, who plans to commission upon his graduation in 2023, said. "The Corps of Cadets paved the way for me to understand the military life."

The BSU gave him a place to examine his heritage and culture in the same space and deal with being a Black student in a predominantly white school.

"The BSU helps anyone learn about the Black culture and how to interact with other cultures and get a better understanding of where you stand as an individual," he said. "We discuss being a good example and being positive in the community."

Walker said both organizations supported him after his brother died. The 21-year-old questioned continuing his education and major.

"I wanted to pursue something that would make me happier," Walker said, adding he first pursued a marketing degree. "I thought if the degree was too hard, I would find another path."

He discovered sociology and decided to incorporate it into his future Army career in the human resources department. Walker said his girlfriend, as well as friends in the corps and BSU, gave him the confidence to make the change.

"I've come a long way, especially in my knowledge and growth at UNG," he said. "My friends and fellow cadets have seen it all."

Walker aims to aid others with the same understanding and support.

"The pitfall of any leader is to not know yourself before you evaluate any obstacle that comes your way," he said. "You also cannot be afraid of failure. It is inevitable. You have trial and error and must be willing to accept defeat and learn from those mistakes."