Personal Statement
I went to my very first swim practice on my 9th birthday. It was hard to learn all of the strokes and I felt like everyone else was so advanced. I started to make some friends and did my best at practice. I felt completely overwhelmed at my first meet but when it was over I felt a sense of accomplishment. My times improved at each meet that first year and I grew more confident in myself. I made it to the Indiana Age Group State meet in the 50 Fly at the end of my first long course season. Not only have I continued to grow and improve each year but I have also made so many good friends. In fact, one of the things that I love most about swim is the way we push each other to do better and encourage each other when it is tough. The sense of family and camaraderie is ever present.
Swim has also taught me a very strong work ethic which has carried over into my school life too. Lessons from my coach often are applicable in the classroom. I know that I have to work just as hard at life outside of the pool as when I’m in between the lane lines. I look forward to swimming at the next level where I can continue to grow as a swimmer and a person. This will absolutely help me reach my ultimate goal of going into the medical field after college.
