Personal Statement

Middle Blocker to Libero, I am a great all-around player.  I started playing volleyball at the age of 10 years old at the suggestion of my babysitter. She and her sisters all played volleyball and thought I would be good at it. She was right! I love playing volleyball and I am actually really good at it. I started as Middle Blocker because I was tall, fast, and strong. My coaches later discovered that I had great ball handling skills and that I could hit very very well so, I started playing as Outside Hitter. I played this position for a few years before transitioning to Libero/DS in High School because of a need to fill in for an injured player. As it turned out, I enjoyed it and surprising to myself was that I played this position quite well. I finished my sophomore year playing Libero/DS. I like Libero/DS because these positions require high level skills in areas that I excel at: ball control, passing, and digging. I enjoy being an all-around player because it keeps me thinking. Each position requires different movements and focus. I like that.

2015-2016 has presented many challenges for me and my family. We suffered a major family loss, we moved from our family house, and we moved from the city that I grew up in to downtown Chicago. New city, new home, new school, new friends, and new volleyball club. I've had to work really hard to keep my GPA up in spite of all that has happened, show that I do measure up, and endure school politics. There were times this year when I wanted to give up but, I didn't because I have worked really hard to be the player and student that I am. My parents taught me that things won't always go my way or as planned but, never give up or quit. Re-strategize my plan and not let "no" become my setback.

When I am not playing volleyball, I enjoy spending time with my dog, King, doing activities with my friends, playing my violin or piano, and just lounging on the couch with my parents watching Netflix.

I am interested in a program that stresses academic excellence as much as athletic abilities. I believe that I will be a great asset as an all-around player and that I have the talent and skill sets to be the backbone and make an impact on your program.

I look forward to it!