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Personal Statement
Both of my parents are runners, so it’s been a part of my family culture for as long as I can remember. I have loved running since I started at age 11, and it’s been a huge part of my life ever since that first day. My dad was a high-school All-American, ran varsity for Indiana University, and then became an accomplished triathlete in his 40s. My mom has always been a strong athlete, but became a world-class triathlete in her 40s. She competed at the Ironman World Championship in 2012 and continues to be a huge inspiration for me.
Academics have always been my first priority, but competing in cross-country and track has been a fantastic outlet for me over the years. I really enjoy being a part of a team, and I truly love my teammates. As much as I want to excel as an individual, the success of my team is even more important to me. Focusing on being the best teammate possible has always been a priority for me. I also try to lead by example by always working hard, staying focused, and doing all of the little things that it takes to be the best that I can be.
I was diagnosed with Type One diabetes at age 11, exactly one month before I began running for the first time. As unpleasant as it can be, I’ve always considered it an inconvenience, but not something that will ever prevent me from reaching my goals. I work hard to control my blood sugar, have the very best technology and doctors in the world, and I actively try to inspire other kids with diabetes by not letting it slow me down. I’m excited for the future, as the technology and treatment modalities continue to improve every year. I’m confident that in college, I will be healthier, stronger, and faster than ever.
I have had a successful running career thus far, as the number two runner as a freshman (team 14th at State), the number 3 runner as a sophomore (team 6th at State), and as a top seven varsity runner again this year as a junior (team currently ranked 4th in State). I have seen some of my former teammates really excel as runners in college, partially because we’re not being overtrained in high school. I consistently finished ahead of two girls who were seniors during my freshman year, and they are now running very well for their collegiate teams. One of these former teammates was one of the top runners in her entire conference as a freshman. The other girl successfully walked onto Michigan’s cross-country team (ranked #3) this fall, and is one of their best 10-15 runners, running 5K in the 17’s.
That gives me a lot of hope for my collegiate running career, and I’m confident that my best running seasons are yet to come. I’m completely committed to reaching my fullest potential as a runner. With my parents’ athletic successes, my former teammates' continued improvement after high school, my consistently solid work ethic, my extensive knowledge (thanks Dad!) of the sport, and my strong desire to contribute to a great college team, I think that I’m a "diamond in the rough” for a program that wants a runner who will only get better in the years ahead.
I’ve always given my best effort every day in both practice and in races, and I will continue to do so. I know that I will be a great addition to whatever college program that I run for because I have a lot of untapped potential, and I’ll be the best teammate possible. I’m also prepared to handle the rigorous schedule associated with being a college student athlete. My time management and ability to focus on the task at hand while busy has improved each of the past three years, and that will pay dividends for me in college.
I look forward to the recruiting process and to getting to know coaches who are interested in helping me become the best student, runner, and person possible. I intend to join a team that focuses on helping its athletes achieve their goals as runners and their goals in life. I’d like to run with a program that is committed to enriching my college experience, while ensuring that I’m well-prepared for the challenges ahead after college.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I promise to make my future coach and team proud to have me onboard.
Sincerely,
Julia Arnold
