If one ever needs to find me, I am most likely splashing around at the Ramsey student center olympic-size pool. For eight years I was a competitive swimmer on a local swim club in Marietta. Swimming provides a sanctuary in which I release my stress and anxiety about school, friends, relationships, or whatever my current problems may be. The sport has brought me unbreakable bonds with immeasurably amazing friends. To my old swim team, I became known as the dad of the team. This is due to, of course, my countless dad jokes and puns as well as my constant care for how my teammates perform not only in the pool but in their life. Swimming also helped me discover the importance and impact of a stout work ethic. Through an uncountable amount of miles swim, many late nights spend finishing homework, several amazing swims, and even more disappointing races, this unforgiving sport revealed to me that there is a beauty in the “grind.” Without my relentless passion for swimming, there would have been no motivation for me in school or in any other categorical event. Although my competitive path in the sport has essentially come to a close, I believe that it has prepared me well for the next step in my life, studying and living at the University of Georgia!