For 11 years, I have stepped onto the track nearly every day to define a new standard of my own mental and physical strength. Track and field is the most challenging thing I have ever done. It is painful; it is demanding; and it is an unapologetic representation of one’s own willpower. There is no room to cut corners or take the easy way out because one hundredth of a second could be the difference between new heights and heartbreak.
By learning to smile in the face of fear and believe that my best self has yet to been realized, I have discovered a resilience inside of me that I never knew was there. No sports equipment, judges, or excuses; just my raw self and a choice to defy my limits or settle for ‘good enough’. Track and field has taught me that putting forth anything less than my full effort is a deprivation my own true potential. Throughout my time as a student at UW I have been a member of the track team, specializing in the 400-meter dash and 4x400-meter relay. Training upwards of 20 hours per week year-round and competing every winter and spring has helped me make the most of my college career. My daily routines revolved around taking care of my body, eating healthfully, sleeping well and managing my time efficiently. My commitment to the track team required me to sacrifice opportunities to be involved in other organizations and clubs on campus, but I know that I graduated from UW as driven, confident, and positive team player thanks to my experience as an athlete.