Shane Ashton '20 Recruiting Profile

As an immigrant student from a low-income community, I have always set the par high for myself in order to stand out and accomplish my goals. Since I was a child, I aspired to be the first person in my family to obtain a college degree. As a senior in high school, I have worked hard since my freshman year to become a first-generation college student. Growing up in Trinidad was difficult. I lived in a community where crime and drugs dominated. However, I was determined to not become a product of my environment. I was extremely active around my neighborhood. My family motivated me to join track and field because they noticed athletic abilities in me while I ran trying to escape my mom chasing me to discipline me. In addition, I was given the nickname of “Flash” throughout the neighborhood. 

Running became a passion of mine as it was the one thing that I did with no effort. I began to believe in myself. II became inspired by Usain Bolt and dreamed of becoming the first Olympian from my family and from the hometown of Enterprise in Trinidad. Ever since I came to America, my outlook on track has changed. In Trinidad I used to run for fun but now Track is a way of life for me. I work hard to improve my athletic abilities by training and setting a goal to beat my personal best and reach a goal of 45 seconds. I know that I can accomplish anything that I set my mind to. I believe that I have the qualities that will help me persevere in college and obtain a college degree in electrical engineering.

What makes me a good candidate is that I am very trustworthy. I am responsible and demonstrate leadership. My coach can count on me to work out independently and also help my teammates. In addition, I am determined to improve and become successful. As a hard worker, I am always self-motivated to achieve my goals. I maintain my focus to ensure that nothing deters my work ethic. Although I have encountered many challenges throughout my upbringing my resilience has allowed me to keep making strides towards achieving my goals. I always maintain a positive enthusiastic attitude. 

What makes me different from other recruits is my mindset. Since freshman year, while running on the track I always maintain a strong mindset to set a personal record. In 2021, I ended the season with the season's best of 50.03 in the 400m during the AAU Metropolitan Qualifier I placed 3rd. In  PSAL, I came first in the 55m hurdles which qualified me to run in the statewide championship. On the 5th of March, I came in 5th place in the 55m hurdles in New York. I attribute my success to being dedicated and a hard worker. I have fought to achieve the success I have in the field of track and that fight, that desire, is what will make me stand out from other recruits. 

During high school, I set a goal to be great and give my all in everything I do. I will continue to internalize that mindset in college. Now being eighteen, I understand why my dad always told me nothing comes easy. I realize I have to work hard for what I want in my life. It can be hard but I am determined to achieve my goals. Ever since I came to America my goals have motivated me to keep going . My dedication to learning has been fostered through establishing strong relationships with teachers and faculty for academic support. Recently, my teachers have afforded me the opportunity to take college level courses such as AP English, Biology and Computer Science. They know my potential and, finally, so do I.