Jalen Essick '19 Recruiting Profile

        Basketball has been one of my passions in life.  My parents introduced me to the game when I was five years old and that is when I started playing. I discovered my competitive nature and leadership skills on the basketball court.  The game of basketball has increased my confidence over the years and helped me to realize that a strong commitment is necessary to achieve my goals.  My commitment and confidence has also helped me to excel in my studies.   At the beginning of this past school year,  I set a goal to achieve a 4.0 GPA and with hard work and determination, I did it. My other passion is animals, especially dogs.  On every vacation trip, my family and I visit the local zoo or aquarium. This past year,  I applied and was accepted into the Zoo Atlanta Teen Volunteer Program. It was a great experience and I learned a lot about animals and  interacting with the public.  This experience certainly improved my interpersonal skills. During my year volunteering at the zoo, I logged 170.73. My future goals are to attend an academically challenging college with a competitive basketball program. I plan to major in Business Administration with a minor in Sports Marketing or Sports Management.  This degree will provide me with the educational background and skills to work in the sports industry after college.