Miguel Hernandez '19 Recruiting Profile

I was ten when my parents decided to give me a better life. They brought me to a country full of opportunities, a country I now consider my home. The very first day I was in Illinois, I entered school and I still remember everyone staring at me because I was different and it made me feel as if I was in the wrong place. I totally disliked school not only because I was the outcast but because I didn't understand a single thing even though I was probably the smartest kid in class but I just couldn't express myself because of the language barrier. The only way I started to make friends and finally be known for what I truly was, were times we played soccer at recess. It was the only time where I could show that I actually was someone with potential and strength of overcoming anything, it was the only time where there was no language barrier but a team. To this day I thank soccer for what It has done to me. From that point on I promised myself that I would work hard for the things I loved, and it has been paying off. Hard work does pay off. That same year I learned English and was honored with the achievement of "Most improved Student" in the school and I went off to play for a local soccer team in which we were champions for 3 years in a row and currently I'm playing for a great club, getting good grades and always seeking for more and the best .

My passion for the sport of soccer is also my gift and I feel like with my qualities I can do great things in life. Not only in the sport but also academically, I want to make my parents proud and have that feeling of joy letting them know they made a good decision of sacrificing everything just for me to be a better person. I want to graduate with a degree in business or maybe graphic design and I know its going to be a long hard journey but I'm ready to take on the challenge. I’ve been a leader all my life and I care for those slacking or being left behind knowing they are part of my team and knowing they have the potential to be way better, I will give them that push because I know how it feels when you think you don't belong some where because you might feel less valuated or less important but what really matters is what you do at the end of the day to change that.