Anthony Gipson '20 Recruiting Profile

What happens you realize you have a paradoxical personality and approach to life? You accept it. You embrace

it. You own it. The dictionary defines a paradox as "a statement that is seemingly contradictory or opposed to

common sense and yet is perhaps true." Our world is filled with many contradictions. To see and understand them

is to be enlightened.

In preparing for a recent calculus test, it was important to stay calm and collected, while maintaining positive

energy to complete several practice equations. I can better focus my energy to study and problem solve if I do not

panic. Whether it's a complex math problem or balancing a heavy academic load, refocusing my energy and

remaining collected, sets the foundation to a successful academic career. Paradoxical trait number 1: calm and

energetic.

I am emotionally invested in both school and swimming. I care deeply about being a successful student-athlete.

Each year, I set goals and objectives for academics and swimming and set a plan in motion to achieve these

goals. There is no easy path to success and sometimes I stumble. I may have missed a certain score on my test

or just missed a best time in swimming. During these times of frustration, I am also clear eyed and understand my

situation. I recognize the need to course correct my study habits, while keeping up with my training, so I can reach

my long term goals. Paradoxical trait number 2: passionate, yet rational.

Brainstorming a solution to a problem is an example of divergent thinking. Convergent thinking is systematic and

logical, like answering questions on the SAT. I teach swim lessons and water safety to small children during the

fall and summer seasons. One particular child was fearful of the water and did not want to get in the pool to start

her lesson. By adjusting my usual approach, I decided to begin with a fun simple game outside of the water. Then

we practiced kicking her legs. She finally entered the water, but still felt safe and had fun by 'blowing water

bubbles". A few weeks later, my student was swimming 15 feet across the pool without stopping. She overcame

her fear and I learned something along the way. By thinking out-of-the-box to help a new swimmer overcome her

fear, showed me that looking at a situation and finding the best approach can open other possibilities and there is

more than one way to solve a problem. Paradoxical trait number 3: convergent and divergent thinker.

Understanding my built-in paradoxes has allowed me to grow as a person, student and athlete. Balancing between

these traits, challenges me in every day experiences, allows me to focus on my goals, and gives me space to

learn from my mistakes. I look forward to bringing this mix of drive, enthusiasm, and humility to my college career and other pursuits in life.