Personal Statement
During my freshman year at Sparta High School, I started as a varsity jumper and have won numerous medals as well as plaques for my team since. Our team recently was honored with 'best boys team' for the second year straight. Through such success, I was positioned to compete in the NJSIAA state championships over the past three years. In addition to track and field, I play high school varsity football where we won the state championship in MetLife Stadium during the 2014 season, made an appearance at the 2016 state championship, and intend to be right back this year. While I have enjoyed success on the field, there is nothing more gratifying than my academic achievements and volunteer opportunities that I experienced during my middle and high school career.
Even though I am the youngest student athlete in my graduating class, I have pushed myself to play at the highest level; making our varsity jump team every year. I have spent countless hours watching video, and reading and connecting with other athletes to improve form and technique. Two summers ago as a sophomore, I attended a jump camp at Appalachian State University, where Coach McLean gave me my insight about how to train like a professional athlete. Taking those basic skills and drills, I was able to achieve a personal best at the Penn State University Keven Dare invitational, long jumping consistently over 21 feet. I plan to continue to expand my knowledge of jumps and put what works for me into motion.
As you can see from my strong academic performance, I have balanced my priorities. I can see myself working toward a degree that combines business, health and athletics and hope to find a way to use those skills to help young children with disabilities. It is a goal of mine to serve my country and I am open to perhaps one day gaining a commission in the United States Armed Forces. I believe it is important to help and give back to your community locally and globally. Through my regular involvement with Pass It Along and various mission trips with our church, I have had many opportunities to help families and people less fortunate than people in our community.
I have been very fortunate to have a great family supporting me. We have a long history of service to our country and community. With generations serving in US Air Force, US Marines and the NYPD, they have instilled that dedication within me. The person who influenced me most was my Uncle Nick. He was a NYPD Captain and lived through that horrific attacks on 911. He always reminds me to appreciate those around you and never make excuses. I recall talking to him about our high school and that we did not have a functioning track. He listened, asked questions and then simply said “So what are you going to do about it?” In response, I have spent countless hours with my teammates training in the hallways of Sparta High. I volunteer to compete at nearby Drew University as well as USATF meets this winter, regardless of events just get more experience.
I look forward to developing and pushing my self to be the best at whatever path I choose. I plan to compete at a very high level in academics and athletics throughout my college career. I look forward to discovering who I am and what I can become to make my mark on this world. I look forward to the guidance, relationships and hard work, which will be at the foundation of my success during my college years.
