- 2023 Highlights
Personal Statement
My name is Houdin, and I am writing to you from Cameroon, a place that has deeply influenced my journey both as a soccer player and as a student. As a forward and sometimes attacking midfielder, I have embraced my role as the captain of our local team, showcasing leadership, strength, and stamina. My playing style and skills are shaped by unique experiences, particularly playing on clay soccer fields, a testament to my adaptability and resilience.
Soccer in Cameroon is more than a sport; it's a uniting force and a source of national pride. Our country's impressive achievements in soccer, especially in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, have been a huge inspiration to me. Growing up, I admired soccer legends like Roger Milla and Samuel Eto'o, whose success stories fueled my own dreams on the soccer field. My early soccer experiences began in the bustling streets of Cameroon, where playing the game was a daily adventure and a pathway to dreaming big. These experiences nurtured my passion for soccer and taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
However, life in Cameroon has its set of challenges that extend beyond the soccer field. The political instability in our country, coupled with the widespread impact of COVID-19, has significantly affected various aspects of life, including my academic journey. These circumstances have particularly impacted my GCE (General Certificate of Education) results. Despite passing the exam, the prevailing conditions during my preparation and examination period hindered my ability to perform to my full potential.
In a determined effort to align my academic achievements with my true capabilities, I plan to retake the GCE exams. This decision stems from my belief in the importance of education and my commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the soccer field. Furthermore, I equally intend to take the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test). This step is crucial for me, as it opens up opportunities for further education and is a testament to my dedication to academic excellence.
My journey, marked by playing soccer in a country with limited resources and facing significant adversities, has equipped me with a unique perspective and skill set. It's this resilience, adaptability, and leadership that I aim to bring to your program. I believe that these qualities, honed under challenging conditions, will be an asset to any team I join.
I am seeking opportunities to grow both as a soccer player and as a student. However, it's important to note that a full scholarship would be the only way for me to play for a college team, due to the financial constraints I face. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining a college team where I can contribute my skills and experiences, embracing the challenges and opportunities of collegiate soccer and academics.
Thank you for considering my application. I am ready to take on new challenges and committed to making the most of the opportunities that college soccer and academic programs offer.
Yours sincerely,
Goune, Houdin Ramses
