Olivia Gaillard '21 Recruiting Profile

        Amongst my siblings, I'm third in the pecking order. It left me wondering if middle child syndrome is actually real. Unsure, I dug around the internet to figure it out. According to Business Insiders, psychological studies identify similar traits in middleborn children (Dodgson, 2017). The similarities are associated with having older and younger siblings. Researchers find middleborns are less parent-oriented than their siblings (Dodgson, 2017). Because the family unit is more extensive, specific characteristics are ingrained in middleborns earlier on in their life. They learn from their sibling's mistakes and can quickly assess situations. Their social skills are stronger, making it easy to establish friendships (Dodgson, 2017). They value relationships, are well-liked, and have a more mixed group of friends (Dodgson, 2017).

        Luckily, certain people in my life are great influencers. They are changemakers; that is, my mom, dad, and uncles. Each of them taught me how to overcome hardship. They are indeed my leading fans and support my development athletically, artistically, and spiritually. Responsible for instilling values and confidence, nurturing, and sharing their passions. Unequivocally, they are supporters of my accomplishments and dreams. From them, I've learned to practice and master fundamental skills athletically and academically. Their inspiration energizes my confidence to shatter records and glass ceiling.

        I am Olivia Gaillard, a Junior attending Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax, Virginia (or PVI as it is more commonly known). I am a two-sport varsity athlete who competes in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) on the varsity soccer and track and field teams. As a triple jumper, I ended the 2019 season, placing third at States and sixth Regionally. As a member of the Virginia Soccer Association (VSA), our club team closed the Fall 2019 season ranked first in NCSL Division 2 with an 11-5-2 record. Playing forward and outside midfielder, I continue to lead with top goals (10), top shots on goal (40), top shots (19), and third in assists (3).

        Appointed as a student ambassador, mentor, and leader, I also serve the PVI community. Introducing prospective students and their families to PVI, I can share beautiful experiences and unique school qualities. I enjoy playing the piano and mentoring students in the Options Program by teaching them to play. Appointed by Coach Glenn Farello, during the indoor track season, I also manage the PVI Men's Varsity Basketball Team. Training to compete athletically, working, and studying takes considerable precision and discipline. However, it is a challenge I embrace. I've ended every athletic season with academic accolades and with a recent induction into the National Honors Society.

        Soccer remains my primary passion. Daily, I work on foot skills by juggling and doing cone and passing drills. During the offseason, I continue conditioning through track and field workouts. Because it maintains my fitness, strength, and endurance levels. My work ethic contributes and improves my speed, agility, and output on the soccer field.

        I look forward to the varsity soccer recruitment process and transition to college.

References

Dodgson, L. (January 18, 2017). 'Middle child syndrome' doesn't actually exist — but it still might come with some surprising 

        psychological advantages.  Business Insiders. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/middle-child-syndrome-psychology-myth-2017-1