I did not start rowing as the strongest guy or in the strongest program, however from my first day on the water I knew that I would put everything I had into becoming a better rower. Switching programs facilitated my growth as a rower and allowed me to become stronger and fitter than I had ever imagined. This was because I took it upon myself to put in my best and hardest work each day, be coachable and be a good crewmate and teammate. I will always put my best work forward each day as I believe it is the best way to make progress. I am not only a weapon on the water or the machine but also in the classroom, as I hold my grades to the same standards as my rowing and have kept my GPA above a 95 for my freshman and sophomore years.