Shoe Dog by Garrett

Shoe Dog by Garrett - May 2017 Scholarship Essay

A book that has impacted me deeply is Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. This memoir tells the story of how Nike created a retail empire with nothing but a dream and some hard work. Shoe Dog inspires me daily due because not only is it a true story but it is told through the eyes of Phil Knight himself. Someday I would like to start my own business and this book helped me invest in that dream even more.

Shoe Dog follows the story of a recent Stanford and University of Oregon graduate with a Master’s in Business Administration wanting to make a change in the world. It all starts with a small company called Blue Ribbon Sports in Eugene, Oregon founded by Phil Knight. This shoe retailer from Eugene eventually spread its brand and famous mission statement of "To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world." This statement not only influences me as an athlete but as a person. I think that every technology needs to be challenged. This book has influenced me to do better never settle for anything.

After reading this book, Mr. Knight influenced me very heavily to start and grow my own business. I think that with a vision that is shared amongst a crowd technology can be changed forever. This was drilled in me by Mr. Knight as I continuously flipped the pages and fell in love with his creation.

Shoe Dog will continue to influence me as I go through school and pursue my dreams. Mr. Knights influences will allow me to continue challenging technology and allowing me to innovate.