WASHINGTON STATE, FEB. 24: In a time when young adults often feel overwhelmed by choices, Dana-Cathrine Tan stands as a testament to adaptability and determination. A former competitive cheerleader from Maple Valley, WA, Dana is now stepping into one of the most physically demanding roles in the U.S. Army: infantry. Her journey is one of transformation—marked by challenges and the courage to break expectations.
Born in Renton in 2003 and raised in Maple Valley, Dana’s early life revolved around athletics, particularly competitive cheer. “A lot of the benefits from being able to do a sport like that are being part of a team,” she says. “And really just pushing myself—not only physically, but also mentally.”
Dana initially took the path of higher education and attended the University of Washington, where she was immersed in Greek life but found the experience unfulfilling. “I had different priorities back then,” she admits. “The maturity I have now is completely different from when I was 18 or 19.” Financial burdens forced her to put school on hold and take on demanding security work in downtown Seattle.
Working in private security, Dana found herself stationed in high-risk areas, navigating tense encounters with individuals struggling with mental health issues and substance abuse. “You’d hear a lot of whistles, people congregating, threats being thrown at you. If you didn’t know how to handle yourself, you’d get hurt,” she recalled.
Rather than letting fear dictate her next steps, Dana saw these experiences as a challenge. “I realized I could persevere through difficult situations,” she says. “And if I could do that, I could push myself even further.”
The structure, challenge, and sense of purpose that the Army provided were exactly what she was looking for.
“I get a lot of questions about why I chose infantry,” she says. “It’s because I really like to be active and push myself.”
Her long-term goal, however, is to transition into a legal career. “I hope to reclass to 27D, paralegal specialist, after my contract,” she explains. “I think experiencing both worlds—infantry and law—will be incredibly valuable.”
Dana recognizes that her journey isn’t conventional, but that’s precisely why she wants others to feel empowered to make their own decisions. “Do something for yourself, not because of what other people think,” she advises. “People might try to persuade you otherwise, but at the end of the day, it’s your life.”
As the Washington native embarks on this next chapter, she carries with her the same spirit that has guided her all along—the drive to push forward, no matter the obstacles.
Inspired by Dana’s story? Connect with a U.S. Army recruiter here.
The views and opinions expressed in this sponsored post are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the views of North Sound Media or its subsidiaries.
North Sound Media does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by using any products or services mentioned in this sponsored post, nor do we endorse any products or services posted under sponsored content.
