Melissa Zhang '17 Recruiting Profile

Although I may not be your typical "speed swimmer", swimming has always played a very important role in my life. I started swimming on a team when I was 7 years old, however this was not a normal swim team. I started my swimming career as a synchronized swimmer. When I entered high school, I decided to join Andover High School's Varsity Swim and Dive team. As a freshman, it was difficult learning the ropes, but as time progressed I found myself improving and truly discovering another aspect of my passion for swimming. Racing gives me such an incredible feeling that is a result of a combination of my determination and love of the water. As I prepare to enter college, I want to continue with this passion and continue to improve as much as I can.

Swimming has made a big impact on my life. It is through both synchro and racing that I've learned the value of not just a team but the value of friendship. I've learned how to be a role model and lead, work tirelessly for my goals, and how to manage my time and be organized. It is these characteristics that I've built over the past 10 years swimming, that have not only earned me leadership positions in swimming (captain of both my synchro and high school varsity teams, and the New England Synchronized Swimming Association athlete rep at the annual USAS Convention) but also positions in my other activities as well. I was recently voted to be the president of Andover High School's Amnesty International Club for next year in addition to co- captain of badminton club. Although these positions help prove to me that others have faith in my capabilities to lead and drive these activities forward, I know in my own heart that it is not these positions that make me capable but it is my character that swimming has helped mold throughout the years that helps me be successful in all my endeavors.