My Quest to Better Myself

In the classic Greek epic, ‘The Odyssey,’ Homer idealizes Odysseus for portraying two attributes: physical and intellectual strength. These are the two qualities that help the protagonist on his difficult journey. Greek society is similar to the society at the Army and Navy Academy, as both idealize a strong body and mind. For the past two years I have been working on developing both aspects of myself. During the summer after my sophomore year, I came to the Army and Navy Academy. I had no idea how intense the academy’s program was.

Every morning before the sun rose, mosquitos often bit us as we lined up for physical training formation. One of the first activities was to run a mile, followed by sit-ups, push-ups and pull-ups. For the first week, excruciating side aches throbbed inside of me. At times I thought my body would burst, as I was not conditioned for this type of workout, but I pushed through the pain. Three weeks into the program I started to look forward to the workouts. Slowly I was transforming my body. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride as I was now leading a small pack of 20 or so cadets. Those early days of training transformed me into someone who now enjoys keeping in shape and exercising every day.

During my junior and senior years, I played for the Academy’s water polo team and also joined the varsity swim team, competing in the 500-meter freestyle and the 200-meter breaststroke. During the off-seasons, I challenge myself by running daily on the beach and then lifting weights. I also strive to make my intellectual side just as powerful. I have earned a 4.43 GPA while attending ANA, which has a rigorous academic schedule in addition to formations, meetings, parades and other special events. I thrive on challenging myself and have taken several accelerated classes such as AP English 11, AP English 12, AP Chemistry and Honors Spanish 3. I have earned high grades by studying every night. Sometimes I would be exhausted as games and meets would not end until long after the sun set, and I would not finish studying until one o’clock in the morning, but these experiences have made me realize that I can now handle any difficult situation. A well-rounded person also needs to be a leader, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given. I have taken several Leadership Education and Training courses where I was taught that respect cannot be received unless it is first given. My mentors have also taught me that true leadership can only happen with selfless service and personal courage. Odysseus displayed these qualities, and I believe that I also exhibit these attributes. However, my quest to continually better myself will continue long after the ANA chapter is complete.