Personal Statement
I started playing volleyball in sixth grade at my school. I love it because along my journey as a player, I've learned it is a team-based strategy game where the main way to be successful is to work together as a team, meaning you cannot be selfish and succeed. Working as a team not only shows how you can handle interaction with new team members, but also it proves how you handle stress and how much you can maintain focus when faced with pressure. In school, I strive to be an “A” student, through my strong work ethic and understand of its importance on my future. I plan on studying psychology in college because I love working with children and have volunteered many service hours! This diligence has resulted in being awarded the President's Gold Service Award as a freshman. The award recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of time to serve their communities and their country over a 12-month time period. Rather than location or size, the characteristics that I am looking for in college are strong academics with great professors and a close-knit, strong volleyball team. Through playing volleyball, I've learned a lot about myself. I have discovered that I am definitely a better player when I am with a team who supports one another through everything. I also learned my sportsmanship is one of my strongest characteristics. This was evident to me after I hit a powerful ball and it hit one of the opposing players. Later, I sincerely apologized when we were both at the net during a referee situation and told her how I did not mean for that to happen at all. After the game, my parents had told me the referee approached them to tell them that she was very impressed with my sincerity and apology. My coaches have been the most supportive adults I have worked with. Along with some teachers and my encouraging parents, my coaches have been there with me through all obstacles. As with all sports, volleyball demands a lot on my body and I am conscientious to take care of my body with physical therapy, ice packs, and hard work so nothing will slow me down. As my club season comes to an end, I am very excited to continue improving my skills with camps, private lessons, and beach volleyball and to see what my future volleyball career has in store!
