Grace Arredondo '17 Recruiting Profile

Dear Viewing Coaches,

    Since I began competitively swimming at seven years of age, I can remember wanting to swim at the collegiate level. When we travel to USA swim meets, my mother and I buy college swim caps from across the country. It doesn't matter to me that some of the team caps I've bought are bitter rivals. Imagining that I was part of a university swim team is what has gotten me through many tough practices in the pool. 

    When I was in sixth grade I joined my high school swim team that had won multiple state championships in a row. The next year, as a seventh grader on the squad, I received the MVP award not just because of my times and dedication, but for my ability to work as a team player. I have been on four different swim teams and though I come across people who I may not see eye to eye with, I have always striven to be a leader and compatible with everyone. 

    From middle school to the present I have been doing fall and winter sports or swimming year round. I have also managed to maintain above average grades even while taking AP and Dual Credit college classes. In eighth grade, I was .4 away from being the Salutatorian of my graduating class of approximately sixty people. I attend a private school that demands only academically excelling students attend, so maintaining my grades has always been a must, and friendly competition with classmates for the highest averages is even encouraged by teachers. Freshman year I maintained my top three spot in the class ranking and have stayed up in the rankings even as school gets tougher. 

    Last year as a sophomore, I swam sixteen miles in honor of my grandfather who had recently passed away from severe injuries he sustained as his mind succumbed to Alzheimer's disease. I raised over three thousand dollars for the Alzheimer's association and inspired many people to go out and raise money for their suffering loved ones. It was a wonderful opportunity to use my swimming abilities to further Alzheimer's research, and to do it in memory of my grandpa's life.

    As a rising senior watching my high school career near its end, I realize it is more imperative than ever to stay motivated and be the best swimmer, student, and overall person I can possibly be. I believe aspirations can become reality when you fuel your desire with hard work and dedication. I've been applying this reasoning my whole life to achieve my goals and learn from the mistakes I make along the way. I would be honored to achieve my goals on YOUR team. Thank you!

Sincerely, 

Grace Arredondo