Personal Statement
Hi. My name is Kailey Ryan. Just a small thing to know about me; I strive to be a leader in everything I do. Not just in the game of volleyball but in life. From excelling in school, to pushing myself physically in volleyball, the qualities I practice as a leader have guided me to know what I want out of life. I want to help others, succeed, and compete against the best with the best. I want to be challenged as well as challenge myself. I want to be part of a team that knows what it means to accomplish goals. For instance, last year I was brand new to my high school team and the only sophomore. No one knew me and I was definitely intimidated by the older, more experienced players. Leadership, team, respect, wow! It was the first time I truly understood what all that meant. What I experienced and learned during my sophomore year can never be taken away. I think about my senior teammates taking me under their wings and showing me what was needed to be successful at the varsity level. Demonstrating how to set goals and how to reach those goals. Even better, the team respected me and what skills I brought to the table. I provided direction to the more senior players on the court in the back row, for example, and they listened! We challenged ourselves every day both on the court and in the classroom knowing that it would pay off at some point along the way. In my eyes, it did pay off. We went to the conference finals and placed higher in the tournament than expected. I understand the impact last year had on me and now I want to “pay it forward”. I yearn for that ability to help others as my mentors helped me.
Nothing comes easy. My parents have told me that my WHOLE life! It’s time for me to show them, “I got this.” I want to go to a strong academic school, play college volleyball, and follow in my Dad’s path as a public servant. In order to overcome adversity, one must continually reach within oneself and ask, “Is this what I really want??”. I know this is what I want – Be a leader in the community, help others, and demonstrate success through setting goals and striving to accomplish those goals. I cannot wait for the opportunity to be part of something that will forever impact me for the rest of my life! Thank you!