- August 2018
Personal Statement
Growing up in a tough situation where I constantly go back and forth in an effort to see both my Mom and Dad has been challenging but has also helped me mature tremendously at a young age. Being a part of both households has allowed me to learn how to quickly adapt to changing environments. My Mother’s household required me to be more of a leader and decision maker. My Mom was a single parent during an impactful time in my life and she made me realize I needed to be responsible and accountable while she couldn’t. I learned to make decisions and recognize consequences probably much sooner than most children. My father’s household required me to be a hard worker, dedication & determination. Whether my Dad, who was a Marine, is/was making me do that extra set of pushups when I am tired, mow the lawn or tackle my homework after a long day at school and baseball, I am always reminded to work hard. I remember thinking “why do I have to mow the lawn?” but now I realize it wasn’t about actually mowing the lawn it was about the responsibility and contributing to my household. All in all, I am now grateful for my situation and have learned to use what could have been an unfortunate situation to my advantage. I am confident the attributes I gained will help me be successful.
I was always active growing up. I was in Karate and played football. I enjoyed being a part of both of these extra-curricular activities but I never truly loved either one but I always gave 110%. Then, when I was 9 years old my father and stepmother signed my little brother up to play the game of baseball. I remember being extremely interested in this sport at his first game. I loved the detail, strategic approach & complexity of a sport that “appeared” easy. I was intrigued! Soon after I started playing baseball and quickly became passionate. I was often told I “have potential” but I wanted more, I wanted to hear “you are great”! I started working hard every day and used the qualities my parents taught me to develop into the player that I am today. Playing baseball has allowed me utilize one of my biggest strengths which is leadership. I also take pride in taking ownership and being accountable. An example as a catcher would be helping my pitcher’s while on the mound or in bullpen. If he’s struggling it’s my job to pull him through it, talk him up and encourage him to get through the situation. Or while catching being vocal to my teammates during defense. I like to keep them motivated & encouraged. Baseball has truly become a huge part of my life and while I would love to believe baseball is LIFE, I was sadly reminded it wasn’t! In May of 2015 I was playing for Elite Squad and I slid into second base and broke my scaphoid (small bone in the wrist). Unfortunately, the break required surgery and instead of being out for the typical 6-8 weeks the doctor said I would likely be out for 6 months. I was truly heartbroken! I remember having a hard time understanding “why” and was quickly reminded by my family members to keep my faith in God. As usual, He didn’t fail me. I never stopped training. I began to hit with one hand, learned how to write with my left hand, kept up with my cardio and was determined to come back stronger than ever. I continued to do well in school & once back on the field I felt stronger than ever. This situation helped me realize there was more to life & it was then I truly realized how important education was. I mean I always knew school was important but what if that injury took me out of the game permanently? What would I have done if I was an adult and did not have an education? This is the reason why I have become so grateful for both my opportunities on and off the baseball field. Going to college has now become equally important as playing the game I love.
In closing, I hope you will recognize me as a valuable addition to any organization and am confident in saying we will both benefit mutually from my attendance at your school. I am dedicated and determined to achieve my dream of being a well-educated athlete with a career in Criminal Justice. I am grateful and look forward to any opportunity I am given.
