The Approval of a Russian by Aimee

The Approval of a Russian by Aimee - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

I believe that character counts and my future success is shaped by decisions that are made daily. I have had struggles in the past and have faced adversity. The lessons that I have learned in the past will help to focus my drive and determination for the future. I had been a competitive figure skater for 15 years, and during the last two years of my competitive skating, I struggled to perform and compete due to an injury, which led to time off the ice and eventually a lack of training. I had actually considered quitting and thought perhaps an elite championship was beyond my reach however, I decided to give skating one last shot. Being a competitive figure skater there is one person you look to the most for guidance and approval, your coach, however you also need to look inside yourself. I know now that the lessons I learned on the ice carry into other areas and I’m a better person because of them.

When I was struggling, I turned to my new coach, Alex, who is a sarcastic Russian. His extreme confidence invoked confidence in me. When I was tired at practice and wanted to quit, he wouldn’t let me, all Alex did was push. However, quitting was not an option and when practice was over I was so glad I didn’t give up… I did it. Alex did not gush with complements; he simply gave a few stern looks. When I did get the look of approval it was so rewarding because I know he knows quality and he is after all, a highly respected coach having taught national and world champions! I began to rely less and less on my coach’s approval and gained the confidence necessary to evaluate and reflect on my own skating and work ethic. After only a few short months he helped me see my own talents and my love for skating was ignited all over again.

The lessons I have learned on the ice can be applied in school, work, and relationships. Sometimes people go through tough times; you might fail a test, have a conflict at work, or even fight with your family. But you cannot just give up; you just have to keep plugging away. The truth of the matter is that there are high and lows in life. So, whether he knows it or not my coach has made a huge impact on me and I will carry the lessons with me where ever I go, and when I feel like giving up I’ll remember the grueling practices and the stern face with a little lift on the side and small smirk, the look of approval, and I’ll remember the message that shouts don’t give up.