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Personal Statement
As a 16-year-old competitive swimmer and aspiring business professional, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to gain international exposure. My unique blend of athletic discipline and entrepreneurial curiosity has fuelled my passion for understanding and excelling in the dynamic world of global business.
My interest in business was sparked by a fascinating experience with two companies that operated under the same business model. One thrived significantly, while the other failed to make an impact. This disparity intrigued me deeply and led me to explore how minuscule and nuanced differences in management practices and operational decisions can profoundly affect a business's success. This realisation has driven my desire to study business management, where I can explore how strategic thinking and effective leadership play a crucial role in achieving business goals.
Swimming at a national level has been a defining part of my life, teaching me the value of perseverance, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. At the Scottish Summer Meet competition in July 2024, I secured second place in both the backstroke and butterfly events, despite being seeded fifth. This achievement came from a mindset of setting personal goals, overcoming nervousness, and focusing intensely on fine-tuning every aspect of my performance. The parallels between the precision required in swimming and the meticulous attention to detail needed in business are striking. Just as slight adjustments in technique can significantly impact a swim time, I believe that small strategic changes can transform business outcomes.
My current studies in Sports Development at a National Progression Awards level have further honed my skills. Leading sessions for young students, I have developed strong leadership abilities, effective planning skills, and the capacity to adapt to various challenges. This role has also enhanced my understanding of how to create value and foster growth, principles that are essential in business management.
Additionally, my work experience at Swim Easy provided practical insights into business operations. Coaching young swimmers under the guidance of a manager taught me valuable lessons in discipline, adaptability, and overcoming challenges, as well as a deeper understanding of the complexities of running a business.
My ambition, commitment, and eagerness to learn from both successes and setbacks position me as a strong candidate. I am confident that the combination of my athletic mindset, academic background, and practical experience will enable me to contribute positively to the course and the university community.
I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how my background and aspirations align with the goals of this course.
Sincerely,
Ismail Shalaby
