Personal Statement
I am Angela Dietrich. I am 17, a high school junior, and I feel lucky. Here’s why: First, I am one of the few kids who is adopted from the orphanages in Russia. When I was adopted in 2006 at about age 2, I was one of fewer than 2% of kids like me. I have an older brother from the same place (Krasnodar—the third largest city and located in the southwest, similar to where L.A. is here). My Dad grew up in Canada. My Mom is the only one of us who was born in the U.S. I am grateful for my family and friends. And I am grateful to be American.
Second, I quickly found my love for soccer. I started playing recreational soccer when I was 6, and competitive when I was 11. Soccer has been my biggest passion since the day I started. My favorite thing about the sport has to be getting to release energy doing something I enjoy most, along with getting to spend time to find out more about my teammates. I have felt a part of every team I have joined. I have been top scorer during some seasons on both my club and school teams so far.
Third, I survived a school shooting in 2019. I was 15, at the STEM school in Highlands Ranch in my math class on May 7, when 2 shooters across the hallway killed one boy and shot several others. I feel lucky to be alive. Since then, I have put more effort into my work both academically and athletically. My favorite classes this year are philosophy and AP Human Geography. I enjoy sharing my opinion in philosophy class while also learning who expressed the ideas long ago that we still embrace. In AP Human Geography, I am fascinated with areas of the world that are new to me. I have always liked English and writing, and intend to study journalism in college.
Fourth, I feel lucky to have athletic talent that I want to develop in college and afterward. I decided when I was nine that I want to play pro soccer and for our National team. I am proud to be American, and I want to use my talent for soccer and our country. I am not afraid of taking chances and trying new things. As an athlete I will continue to push myself each day and challenge myself to get to the level of competitiveness I have dreamed of since I was nine.
Finally, I want to give back because of my luck. I hope to one day be able to entertain those who may not have been as lucky to get a family like I am. I would like to give back to those who haven’t been able to have a life similar to mine by being able to encourage the kids who were in the same position as I was to pursue their dreams and passions.
