RaJa Nelson '20 Recruiting Profile

My parents sacrificed in order to give me a Christian education (private school grades 1-6), something I will always be grateful for them doing. It gave me a solid foundation, something I can count on as it will guide me throughout my life. No matter where my road leads, whatever adversity I might encounter on or off the field, I have that rock of my Christian faith to fall back on, guide me, and steer me in the right direction.

I think I can count on one hand the number of games that my parents ever missed (any sport: basketball; football; lacrosse; track). They have shown enormous support and I know I wouldn't be where I am today or the person I am without their steadfast support over the past 16 years. I am grateful for those many years of love and support. As I mature, I am only now beginning to realize just how important, and what an integral part they have played in my athletic success.

As a three sport athlete, I feel I have the skills, character and steadfastness to be a leader on any team of which I am a part. I have been invited and attended the National Football University (FBU) Regional Camps, FBU Top Gun camps, and US Army All American Bowl Game (8th gr) from 5th grade through 9th grade.  Participating in the FBU over the past several years has given me the opportunity to go toe-to-toe with the best ball players in the country and to further hone my skills. Through the years I have had the opportunity to watch myself on film, where I am able to observe my strengths and weaknesses. This gives me the opportunity to work harder on my weaknesses and to further enhance my strengths. 

I believe I have an advanced IQ for the game of football. I have great focus when it comes to breaking down the game. I am very agile and I focus well on the task at hand. I pick up new plays very quickly and accurately.  I am very competitive and welcome any challenges that come my way. I possess unique leadership qualities. Many of my peers, young people, as well as older, look to me for guidance and encouragement. Since many people are naturally drawn to me I realize that this gives me great responsibility to set a good example and to lead by example.

I currently hold a solid 3.7 GPA; I hope to bring that up to 4.0 over the next two years. For college I'd like to major in Business, Engineering, or Marketing. I belong to a diverse leadership group in my high school called T.E.A.M (Taking Education Above Myself).

Our family experiences much racism in the town we live in. I have overcome adversity at a young age. Dealing with the issue of racism has helped me to work beyond my fear and it has enhanced my inner personal communication skills. I realize also that not every person has that negative mindset of racism. I have learned to work with and get along with many people who are different than me.  This has made me a very strong person.