Life is all about seeing opportunity and taking it every time you get a chance, and this is one of the main reasons why I came to UCI. While it wasn’t my initial first choice for college, I soon realized that it was the right place with the most opportunities for me. Those opportunities weren’t immediately visible, but I knew if I positioned myself correctly, worked hard, and networked in this type of environment that they would present themselves among the challenges. Running track for UCI has been one of those challenges and it has been very rewarding.
Through competing in conference tournaments, NCAA regionals, NCAA finals, and the U.S. Olympic Trials, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many great people in athletics. More importantly, I feel that I’ve been able to help build the UC Irvine name nationally, something that I am very proud of. There’s a unique sense of responsibility that I’ve felt as I’ve accomplished more in competition, and while it can sometimes be challenging, I think it’s helped my teammates want to elevate their performances, which in turn helps me strive to achieve more for my team, those who are close to me, and this university.
After I graduate, my goal is to compete professionally in my sport, where your success can be amplified if you build your personal brand effectively. Utilizing the experiences I’ve been fortunate to collect through competing and in the classroom, I feel that I am ready to succeed in life after college, and I’m grateful for that. My hard work not only represents me but it represents UCI and what being a part of this university can do for anyone. To me, it shows that with hard work, determination, and a vision of success, that anything is possible.”