Personal Statement
Donovan Parks Personal Statement
“True victory stems from hard work, discipline and persistence.”
The first sport I ever played was soccer against my two older siblings. Nerf kiddie soccer against my older brother and sister turned out to be a shocking experience. My otherwise loving and compassionate brother and sister always played to win. Though they patiently explained their strategies throughout the game, they refused to show me any mercy, accumulating goal after goal. In addition, they trash talked most of the time, despite my pleas and tears that I was their younger brother and only five years old. I remember clearly the pain I felt from losing, but I remained eager to play and determined to one day beat them. Eventually, we left the nerf kiddie soccer game behind and graduated to the regular soccer, basketball, and expanded to football. Every time we played, I carefully observed my brother and sister moves and habits while considering my own options. Over the years, they continued to beat me in many of the games, but the contests became more competitive and my losses more narrow. Finally, at twelve, I won for the first time, at basketball no less, a game at which they both claimed to be undefeated! I felt an overwhelming sense of pride, which was only magnified when I saw the same emotion in both of my sibling’s face.
I learned so much from these games beyond the obvious. I learned how to lose, and win, graciously. I learned to enjoy and complete the process, regardless of the outcome. I learned how to take cues from other people but think on my own, both creatively and strategically. I learned how to cope with failure and turn it into a lesson. I learned that true victory stems from hard work, discipline and persistence. And I learned that the strongest and most meaningful relationships are not based on indulgence but on honesty and respect.
This doesn’t mean that losses and disappointments don’t hurt. I was devastated when my youth football team lost the local championship game after being undefeated for two years. However, I was still incredibly proud of my team’s cohesiveness, the tenacious effort we put into the season, and my own contribution. More importantly, the camaraderie and support of my teammates and friends is something I will always cherish more than a win. We didn’t dwell over what could have been. Instead, we focused on what the opportunity to compete in the future. We eventually became national champions the next year.
This past year, I had my first substantive leadership experience by being a team captain on my football and basketball teams. My strategy was the same: work hard, remain focused, be mindful and respectful of those around me. I believe I earned the respect, trust, and friendship of many my peers. I connected with individuals from diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. My sincere desire to see all of his teammates succeed lead me to play less glamorous position to help build confidence my less-seasoned teammates.
My siblings and I still regularly play games, and we play to win. However, the match is now more balanced and I’ve noticed they pay much more attention to my moves and habits and even learn a few things from me.
