My Story
My father has been one of the most influential people in my life, shaping not only who I am as a student but also who I am as a person. He supported me in everything I pursued and consistently pushed me to give my best effort, both academically and athletically. As my wrestling coach, he instilled in me the values of discipline, perseverance, and accountability. These lessons were not limited to the wrestling mat. They influenced how I approached school, relationships, and challenges, teaching me the importance of preparation, resilience, and responsibility in all areas of life.
Transitioning from high school to college as both a scholar and a student athlete was a significant challenge. The increased academic expectations, demanding practice schedule, and new independence required me to develop strong planning and time management skills. Learning how to balance coursework, athletics, and cohort responsibilities was not easy, but the process helped me grow. It showed me that I am capable of handling more responsibility than I initially believed and that consistency and organization are key to long term success.
Being part of the Athena cohort has provided a supportive and motivating environment throughout this transition. The encouragement, structure, and sense of community have pushed me to continue improving both academically and personally. These experiences have helped prepare me for my future as an educator, where I hope to pass on the same values of discipline, perseverance, and support to my own students.