- September 2014
Personal Statement
I am proud to admit I am a math nerd. My love of problem solving and numbers has led to a career path of engineering. Probability is a skill of mine that I not only use in the classroom, but also on the field. As a catcher I use probability to "out wit" the batters.Hitting is not a dual between the pitcher and batter, but between the batter and catcher. I try to call pitches that will confuse the batter to cause an out. I use probability to keep track of steal attempts,the likelihood of what pitch the batter won't expect, and how many pitches I have seen when in the box. Softball is also very dependent on geometry. The angle at which throws are made, judging motion from the bat, using the bat to manipulate pitch location, all ties back to math. I truly believe that a strong background in math has made me a better softball player.
Math is unique that is rigid and precise. Just like in softball, you are either out, or safe. There is no room for compromise. Character is determined by similar guide lines. For example: if one is given a curfew you either obey the time constraint, or you do not. When you drive a car you obey the speed limit, or you do not. Disregard the limits, suffer the consequences. Being a teenager it is hard to maintain good character because so many want to skew the parameters. I hold myself to a strong character, but it isn't always easy.
I believe I have the academic ability to achieve an engineering degree. During this journey I would also like to extend my time playing softball. Softball has been a part of my life for 14 years and I am not ready to put my Nokona away just yet. Along the way I hope to remain true to myself and my peers. Good decisions can mold and foster great people. Just like in math if your problem is "a little off" it is still wrong. Just like in softball if your hit is "a little foul" it is still a strike. Just like in life if you drink "a little under 21" it is still illegal.
