Personal Statement
Not learning how to swim was never an option for me. It is a life skill that I believe everyone should possess. I began swim lessons at our local YMCA at the age of 3 and was swimming competitively by age 5. Swimming was fun, a chance to make new friends, and gave me a strong sense of accomplishment.
After many years with our local club, I transferred to a new team closer to my school. I was able to quickly make friends with my new teammates and adapt to new coaches and training styles which allowed me to advance my training. As a competitive swimmer, I have a strong sense of belonging thanks to a team that shares my same goals and values. I have also gained an increased sense of self-awareness and personal discipline that makes me appreciate the journey thus far.
While I certainly have not won every race over the past 11 years, participating in competitive swimming has allowed me to grow as a person by teaching me to be a supportive teammate, a leader among my peers, and most importantly, how to face challenges and overcome adversity.
I am excited to continue my personal, academic, and athletic development, and look forward to the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level.