Personal Statement
I understand the importance of serving my community. My parents have taught martial arts to youth on Saturdays though the Imhotep Science Academy for as long as I can remember. The free service to youth is a form of violence prevention that encourages youth to learn their traditional cultures and to embrace the principles and values it has to offer. I have been taught that leadership is just showing by example, working hard and encouraging others. I have been part of my high school's track and cross country teams. In addition, I have been running for the St. Louis Park Flyers club. Running with the St. Louis Park Flyers track club during the off-season has also helped me to transition into adulthood. The Flyers are a family-orientated club and they sponsor all-ages track meets. I like the sense of community that the Flyers promote. I am inspired by how courageous the little kids are and how dedicated the older athletes are when they compete. I get the opportunity to be mentored by older athletes and I am able to give back by mentoring younger athletes. Being a part of this inter-generational team has helped me to understand the importance of building community not only in terms of athletics, but in academics and life.
This year, my leadership has paid off in new ways because I have been honored and given the privilege of being a team captain at school as well as a board member and team captain at Park Flyers. The experiences that I gained over these past three years have helped me grow and mature into adulthood. I have emerged with more confidence and humility and I feel that I can make it to the State Championship this year, get admitted to a great college and find a meaningful way to continue mentoring in my community through academics and athletics.
