Taryn De Leon '14 Recruiting Profile

If I could not make it as a professional athlete my dream job is to be a preschool teacher. I am aware that preschool teachers get paid peanuts because they are quote-un-quote glorified babysitters. Even knowing that becoming a preschool teacher is my dream job. I have always enjoyed watching as younger children learn the little things that we as adults take for granted. We may not remember learning our ABC's, numbers and our manners, but those are the things that we have used to achieve our greatness in life. I want to teach the children of the future the fundamentals of life.

One of my proudest moments was when I participated in the 2011 Pentathlon at the Armory. To be honest I was a little hesitant to be involved in running the 800m and throwing the shot.I was not completely familiar with the 800m and the shot put. I was so worried that I would not meet the high expectations my coaches had for me. I did not want to let them down, but knowing they felt that way I wanted to compete at my best ability. I did not even think I had a chance of even placing; most of my competition were returning from last years pentathlon. When I heard the man say my name in the same sentence as first place on the speaker system I felt so accomplished. All that I heard was the sound of my teammates cheering for me. Having them be so proud of me was great I was overwhelmed with joy. As I was walking up to the next level I cried tears of joy. At that moment I felt so connected to Track and Field. I was so proud because I knew I worked so hard to be in that position.