Personal Statement
My love of swimming developed from my desire to be part of a sport where I could simultaneously set individual goals as well as be part of a team. Growing up, I participated in competitive gymnastics and loved the physical and mental challenges of individualized training. However, I realized that I was missing the camaraderie and collaboration associated with being part of a team. I challenged myself to a trial season on a local club swim team, fell in love with the sport and knew I was where I belonged!
While I have certainly taken great pride in setting personal goals and achievements, such as qualifying for my first Futures meet at age 13, taking first place in the Central Zone All Star Meet at age 14, and setting a new high school record in the 50 free my freshman year, some of my most exciting moments have been on relays. My favorite relays have been those at Central Zone meets where swimmers from different teams combine to represent one “super” relay from the Midwestern LSC. These special relays and Central Zone meets have allowed me to “reach across the lanes” and develop close friendships with swimmers from other teams.
As a swimmer, I have learned how to be self-motivated, mentally disciplined, work under pressure, and prioritize and schedule my time wisely. I enjoy learning about stroke mechanics and studying ways to increase stroke efficiency. As a swimmer, I have also had to learn to develop resiliency from the powerful emotions of disappointment as well as the frustration when hitting a plateau, experiencing an unwelcome injury, or not meeting a desired goal. I believe these same skills and work ethic are evident in my high school academic performance, as my coursework includes a rigorous schedule of honors classes and I have maintained a 4.0 GPA. I have a strong interest in mathematics and problem-solving, and anticipate pursuing a college degree that is related to the study of math and science.