Kate Iio '15 Recruiting Profile

In my freshman year of high school, I broke the 50 freestyle record with a 25.33. It was the most memorable moment of my entire life and, honestly, I felt like I was a freshman phenomenon. Later, I went to CIF for a relay and that was when I realized my 50 freestyle time was nothing close to a "big deal." There were girls easily going under 24, and some even 23. It was in that moment when I realized I had no right to flaunt my time around just because I broke a record. This led me to push myself at practice in order to become a faster swimmer. Even if I achieved that, I wouldn't stop there because there really is no limit as to how fast anyone can swim. I believe anyone can achieve anything as long as they put their mind and the effort into it and truly trust themselves.

The same goes for academics. Although a B is an okay grade, getting an A will always be my ultimate goal. I've been a year-round swimmer since first grade, so I have a lot of experience juggling my responsibilities between school and swimming. This has taught me how to set my priorities straight and use my time productively.

I believe I would be a great contribution to a high school swim team because I love to swim, I can keep up with my academics, and, most importantly, I am willing to put in the effort and go the extra mile.