Cross Country Clique by Erica

Cross Country Clique by Erica - December 2013 Scholarship Essay

Trying-out for a sport in my junior year of high school was very stressful. I had never been part of an organized sports team and was not athletic at all. Of course I had many fears, including not being accepted onto the team. However, I knew if I put my heart into it, nothing bad would happen.

Running long distances for Cross Country try-outs during the oppressive August heat was no easy task. Luckily, I made the team and quickly acquired new friends. They were all very accepting of me and I knew I was going to have fun. We traveled to many different places to participate in races with other teams. I qualified to be on the "Top 10 Runners" list on our team by the end of the season and was congratulated for my success by the whole team, as well as my coach. For a first-year runner, this was a splendid accomplishment. Being complimented by so many people inspired me to continue running. I never felt pressured or anxious; I was always comfortable and relaxed.

By the end, I had many friends and also some sentimental items to keep for memories. I felt great about myself and encouraged others to go for their goals and to always be persistent.