Personal Statement
Making the 3rd varsity boat in my freshman year has been a significant part of my athletic career. I started rowing the month before school started, so I was a novice the fall term. However, I was quickly moved up and began training with the junior varsity girls for the end of the fall season. This rapid jump in training truly pushed me as an athlete. I had to persevere through the tough workouts while learning new skills as I went along. Although these practices were demanding, I learned, through my team-mates, the value of motivating and supporting one another. During erg workouts when I thought I could not do anymore my team-mates cheered me on and helped me to finish the piece showing me that I was capable of more than I could imagine. This experience not only taught me how to be a better team-mate, but it has lead me to want to work hard and improve my rowing to achieve the college level.
Spring season began and once again I was training with the varsity team. I was immediately placed into the third boat as stroke seat. Being the stroke in one of the top three boats was extremely stressful for me. I struggled with rushing up to the catch and setting a good pace. I had to learn how to adjust my technique so my boat could perform its best -- I was determined. I spoke with my coaches after and during practice and asked them what I could do better. Even when we had erg workouts, I made sure to be aware of what I needed to improve. My background as a competitive swimmer and gymnast helped me to stay persistent with my training.
Overall, through my quick step up to varsity, I have learned the value of teamwork, perseverance, persistence, and dedication. I hope to continue to use all these skills in my academic and athletic career throughout high school and college. I’m looking for a program that will not only benefit my athletics but my academics as well. I believe that I will be a great asset for college teams not only because of the skills I have gained, but because of my work ethic, ability to be coached, and character. As a dual athlete, I know that I have what it takes to motivate myself and those around me to do their best.