If you were trapped in the middle of an ocean on a raft, with nothing but a compass, how would you try to find civilization? Would you let your raft aimlessly wander, controlled by the chaotic nature of the ocean, or would you guide yourself using your compass? 

One of the biggest challenges high schoolers like myself have today is getting into a good college to kick-start their careers. Many students have a goal for where they want to be but struggle to visualize a plan for their success. Creating a plan to chart a path toward their goals is key to overcoming this challenge. After witnessing two siblings before me scramble to complete college applications, my dad developed an understanding of what colleges seek in their applicants. Achieving good grades is consistently emphasized but this is only half of the equation. 

Being a high-level athlete gives a unique edge for potential recruiting offers into prestigious colleges. With tens of thousands of straight-A students applying for prestigious colleges, excelling as a high-level athlete separates one from the crowd. Wrestling is the sport I chose to proceed with this plan. Initially, I despised wrestling when I started because I was too lazy to exercise. As time went on, the sport grew on me and evolved into a significant portion of my life. 

Now in high school, I dedicate every day to the gym, honing my strength and wrestling skills. Doing these activities every day for hours at a time instilled discipline and resilience in me. I learned to push myself beyond the limits physically and mentally. On days when I felt lazy, I made myself lift weights because I knew that I needed to in order to be stronger. When you step on the wrestling mat, you engage in an intense struggle for control. This battle requires superior speed, strength, and skill training through months of consistency. I think wrestling and weightlifting are some of the best hobbies one can partake in. Both these activities are amazing examples of discipline and delayed gratification. The weeks and months of time one puts into training, directly translate into better performance on the mat.

My dedication to wrestling not only highlights traits schools value but has molded me into a well-rounded individual capable of taking on life challenges. Without wrestling I would not be the person I am today nor would I have opportunities for success in the future. Wrestling is my compass that guides me through my ocean of challenges, leading me toward success.