Personal Statement
Even though I started pole vaulting in January 2015, I have never experienced a sport so thrilling and addictive as this one, accomplishing a PR of 12' in just over a year from my first vault. In my first 18 months, I placed 5th at State, 2nd at Indoor State Illinois Prep Top Times, qualified for New Balance Indoor and Outdoor Nationals, and qualified and placed in AAU Junior Olympics. Pole vault feeds my competitive spirit and pushes me to excel every day. However, this wouldn't be possible without my gymnastics background.
Being a level 10 gymnast helped me apply my strong work ethic, body awareness, speed, tolerance for physical rigor, and strength to pole vault. Training 20 hours a week in gymnastics since the age of eight taught me time management and commitment, preparing me for the demands of being a collegiate athlete. Throughout my life, I have demonstrated commitment to excellence in both education and athletics.
I always demonstrate respect toward my coaches and teammates, in addition to earning their support and respect in return. I have a reputation for being a highly coachable athlete, able to take feedback and convert into results quickly. In addition, I am a leader on my team motivating teammates, role modeling and leading training routines, and providing oversight and coordination for administrative activities such as communicating upcoming meet requirements/deadlines and pole inventories for all athletes. I am hardworking, responsible, and live my life with the highest level of integrity. I establish high personal expectations and exceed those placed upon me by others. Throughout my athletic career, my family has been there every step of the way. I wouldn't be the person or athlete I am today without them.
I am looking for a school with an exceptional pole vault program that will challenge me constantly to push myself to new levels while balancing my desire to excel academically, with a focus in math and science.