Personal Statement
My name is Adugna (pronounced Ah-doon-ya) Moritz. I'm 17 years old and was born in Ethiopia. I have lived in the US since I was 8 years old, first in Colorado and most recently in Michigan. My first passion was soccer and I played competitively until the 8th grade. I started running 5K and 10K road races when I was 11 as a way to keep my edge in soccer and because people said I was fast. I've also competed in swimming, karate, wrestling and football. In middle school, I went out for cross country and track and did well. These sports are now my primary focus since starting high school. I'm frequently told I have a gift and I'm hoping to turn this into an opportunity for a college education. I have always been interested in a career in computers or mechanical or electrical engineering (I've been repairing iPhones/iPads for a few years now and like to build and fix things) so a college with a strong engineering/computer emphasis plus a top running program would be perfect.
A little more about me, I think my coaches would say I'm responsible and have a solid work ethic. I set high goals for myself and know the importance of staying mentally focused when I run. I'm a team player and I like to share my experiences and set a good example for younger and less experienced runners. I don’t procrastinate. I work hard in school and care about my grades. I did not do well my first semester of high school after the stress of leaving friends and family in Colorado and starting a new school. My goal is to be at at least a 3.4 by the end of my junior year. When I'm not training I like to skateboard, snowboard and hang out with friends.
I hope to someday to be offered a scholarship that combines running and academics. I'm leaning toward colleges out West, or someplace warmer than Michigan, but I will go wherever I can to get a good education. I think I would like to run competitively beyond college too if I can stay free of injuries and at the top of my game. Hopefully, you now know a little more about me. Please feel free to contact me if you have anymore questions.
Sincerely,
Adugna Moritz
***Update: I recently moved back to Colorado to live with my dad, Darren Moritz, to complete my senior year of high school. This decision was made primarily based on my mother havMing health problems and having to go on disability. My parents decided that this would be in my best interest and I agreed. I will be running for Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins CO.