Cole Roman '25 Recruiting Profile

When I heard that sickening crack and pop while dodging on the field, it wasn’t just the sharp pain in my ankle that hit me. I felt an overwhelming wave of disappointment and uncertainty. I had no idea this injury would become a major lesson in resilience. It taught me a lot about perseverance and adaptability. During my lacrosse season, I faced a tough setback: a severe high ankle sprain that left me unable to walk and stuck on my couch for an entire week. The doctor told me I would likely be out for at least one to two months, depending on how my ankle healed. I returned to practice just two weeks after my injury, using crutches and wearing a boot. Unfortunately, I missed two crucial games during that time. By the third week, I was off the boot and crutches, though my ankle was still painful. I convinced my coaches to let me play, so they taped it up and agreed. As the weeks went on, my coaches kept a close eye on me to make sure I wasn’t pushing myself too hard. In the end, spraining my ankle became more than just a physical setback. It transformed into a powerful lesson in resilience. The recovery process taught me the importance of patience and self-care. Each day brought new challenges but also fueled my determination to return to the field. This experience didn’t just strengthen my body; it solidified my mindset, reminding me that setbacks can lead to greater strength and insight. Now, I approach challenges with renewed purpose, understanding that every struggle can lead to a stronger comeback. My sprained ankle forced me to confront my physical limits, prompting me to slow down and rethink how I take care of myself and engage in the activities I love. It highlighted the significance of patience and support from those around me during my recovery. This experience has profoundly shaped my identity and perspective on life. I learned to value patience and self-care, realizing how much I had taken my mobility for granted. Challenges that once seemed like mere obstacles became growth opportunities. I now approach activities with mindfulness, recognizing my limits and appreciating the support I receive from others. Looking to the future, I see this experience as a springboard for personal growth, inspiring me to tackle challenges with resilience and compassion. It reinforced my belief in the strength found in vulnerability. The qualities I developed from this injury are resilience, empathy, and mindfulness. These are invaluable in today’s world, especially in the workplace. Resilience has prepared me to adapt to setbacks and face challenges positively, which is essential in dynamic environments. Empathy enhances my ability to connect with colleagues, fostering strong relationships and a supportive work culture. Mindfulness helps me maintain focus and manage stress effectively, improving my productivity and decision-making. Together, these traits contribute to my personal growth and make me a valuable asset to my team.