What motivates you to pursue your academic goals and how do you stay focused? by Corey

What motivates you to pursue your academic goals and how do you stay focused? by Corey - April 2024 Scholarship Essay

Studying sports management would provide me with critical skills in leadership, decision-making, and organization. This major can prepare me for roles in business, healthcare administration, and more. Additionally, choosing physical therapy as a possible second major will align well with a sports management degree, and would place me in an ideal position to pursue a career that involves health management. This combination of majors can provide me with opportunities for careers in administration, private practice ownership, or even working as a physical therapist with a strong understanding of management principles.

In terms of career aspirations, my participation in sports and the bonds I grew have greatly influenced my decision and have allowed me to stay focused on academics. The values and skills I've learned have seemed to relate to physical therapy in various ways. The ability to stay persistent, handle pressure, and communicate with my peers will come in handy when pursuing physical therapy. Whether I'm assisting an individual in getting mobility back or helping a patient recover after an injury, I am confident in my ability to help others and create success for myself.

Participating in sports during my high school years has most definitely shaped my personal growth and future aspirations of pursuing a sports-related career. Through these experiences, I've developed important life skills, gained a strong sense of discipline, and established a persistent mindset that I believe will have a great impact on my career goals.

Playing varsity soccer in high school has taught me the true value of teamwork and collaboration. Playing alongside my teammates has allowed me to build a connection and therefore achieve success off of said connection. This connection has not only improved my social skills but also ingrained in me a deep understanding of the importance of cooperation. These skills were proven to be very effective in group projects. I would undoubtedly connect these skills to have contributed to my success in group project efforts.

Sports have taught me the significance of time management and discipline. Balancing tiring training schedules and academic responsibilities forced me to prioritize and manage my time efficiently. Being able to efficiently manage my time will help me down the road when it's time to commit to a career. Meeting deadlines and managing multiple tasks are essential parts of excelling in a career. The perseverance and dedication required to excel in sports have also nurtured a strong work ethic that will undoubtedly set me apart from others as I pursue my career goals.

Participating in sports has enhanced my ability to not succumb to pressure and properly deal with setbacks such as a broken ankle that took me out for 6 months right before my junior year at the height of college recruitment. Facing these challenges as well as those on the field, such as tough opponents or unexpected losses, has taught me to remain calm under pressure and maintain focus. The ability to resist pressure is extremely beneficial, as I try to find my way through the ups and downs of physical therapy. Furthermore, sports have provided me with this sense of self-confidence and a strong belief in my capabilities. Overcoming obstacles and achieving personal goals on the field has made my belief that with dedication and effort, I can conquer any challenge stronger. This self-belief will undoubtedly allow me to blossom as I pursue my career goals. This will empower me to take risks and be able to pursue new opportunities without hesitation.

Ultimately, combining management and physical therapy will give me an effective skill set that can lead to several career opportunities in healthcare management, rehabilitation services, or even entrepreneurship in the healthcare industry.