Erik Ruiz Velasco '20 Recruiting Profile

I started competitive swimming my freshman year of high school. Swimming has always been a gateway for me to stress relief, have fun, and improve. My freshman was one of the most valuable learning experiences of my life. I started off as the slowest member of the team, not knowing how to properly dive, sprint, swim other strokes, etc. I knew that everyone of my teammates had at some point  been in the exact position I was in.  My parents, friends, and teammates have all encouraged me and supported me to improve and strive towards success. At the end of my freshman swim season I was awarded the most improved swimmer,  even sophomore year I was awarded the most inspirational player. I love to support, encourage all my teammates especially newcomers who are in the position I was in when I joined. Because of my persistence and dedication, I went from being the slowest of the team (swimming a 50 FR in 1 min) to captain and the fastest (23sec).  I learned that it does matter where you start, whether being a beginner or a professional. The amount of hard work  you put in can take you anywhere you want. 

I am a very competitive swimmer, I love to push myself to the limits and continue to improve. I am a team leader and try to be a leading example while also encouraging my teammates. I am very coachable and strive to be the most dedicated and hardworking swimmer you find. 

As for my academic goals, I have a 3.8 GPA and will be taking AP Calculus BC and AP french. I strive to earn a degree in Applied Mathematics/statistics. I have always loved and excelled at mathematics since elementary to highschool and I continue to love math everyday.