Darren Campbell
Northern News Services

NNSL (Aug 21/98) - Jolene Russell didn't even want to go to the Senior Leaders Course in Cold Lake, Alberta.

But after graduating from the six-week course, the 17-year-old air cadet from Yellowknife considers it one of the better experiences of her life.

Russell was the only NWT cadet selected to go to the camp. The course teaches cadets how to be better leaders, the disciplines of air force life including dress, and drill exercises.

The St. Patrick high school student said she heard the course was very tough and that is why she did not want to go at first.

"I heard it was one of the most challenging courses and because of that I was scared to go," said Russell. "I got there and I was nervous but now I would say it was one of the better experiences in my life."

Besides learning new skills that will help her be a better cadet this year, Russell said she got to meet a lot of new people.

"I met cadets from every province," said Russell. "You have to live with these people -- eat, sleep, and even go to the washroom with them. You become very close with them."

Along with being the only NWT cadet among the 306 people in her course, Russell also managed to win a medal as the top cadet from her province or region.

In what will probably be her last year of cadets, Russell said the course will make her a better cadet because she will be a better leader and be a better teacher for the younger cadets.

"I've taught courses before but now I can teach a class and make it interesting, so they can retain the knowledge," said Russell.

Despite her success as a cadet, Russell said she doesn't see a future in the Armed Forces for her. She said journalism or teaching are careers she is looking at right now.

But being an air cadet has rubbed off on her to some degree. She said she wants to get her private pilots licence in the future.