- 2019 Highlights
Personal Statement
My name is Laurel Yates and I am 17 years old. I am currently a Senior at Rockcastle County High School in Mount Vernon, Kentucky. I have been swimming since I was 7 years old. It has challenged me mentally and physically, but it has also provided me with opportunities and experiences that were beyond my dreams. It is my sincere wish to continue swimming at the collegiate level. It is not only a sport I love, but it is also a vehicle for my educational and career goals.
Rockcastle County is rural and there are no pools in the county. For nine years, I have traveled almost daily for practices. This hard work has paid off. I am a four-time region champion, six-time runner-up, and I was the first swimmer from my county to advance to the state championship meet. Lack of a nearby pool has not been a disadvantage because it has forced me to realize my own commitment and level of dedication. Sometimes, I believe the sport of swimming has taught me more out of the water than in it.
However, I realize smooth starts, fast turns, and record times are not enough. Therefore, I have challenged myself both in and out of the classroom. I have taken and am scheduled to take several either AP or dual-credit courses before finishing high school. I am currently ranked second in my class academically. I am involved in numerous school clubs and have conducted both toy and clothing drives as a way to serve my community.
I am looking for a college that will help me fulfill my educational needs, but will also offer a competitive swimming environment with a strong sense of TEAM! I look forward to hearing from coaches and I am greatly excited about this process.
