Abigail Blankenship '23 Recruiting Profile

Living in five different places may not sound all that special, but how many kids can say they crisscrossed the United States three different times to create a new life because the US military asked their family to do so?

I was born in San Diego, California where my father was an active-duty Marine in command of the First Battalion at the Recruit Depot, San Diego. My mother was a teacher for the Department of Defense. During my father’s career as a United States Marine, I have had the unique experience of living in different parts of the United States. I feel that having the opportunity to live in different places, coupled with my father being a Marine, has defined my character and instilled strong morals and values. 

After living in California for two years, my family and I spent a quick 10 months in Newport, Rhode Island, and then back across the United States and over the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii. 

 In Hawaii, I enjoyed making new friends while starting preschool and then kindergarten. Hawaii is where I first learned and discovered my passion to play soccer. My mom was actually my first coach when I was 5. 

After living in Hawaii, we moved back across the United States to Parris Island, South Carolina. There I continued to play soccer and improve my skills. I still lived in a military base near the ocean and continued to learn and grow. 

The last place we moved, and where I currently live, is Brevard, North Carolina. I have lived here for about 9 years and learned to love the mountains. They are very beautiful and there are many things to do here. I have enjoyed activities like hiking, mountain biking, and camping.

Other interests that make me well-rounded include baking, painting, swimming, and most of all playing soccer. During the summers I lifeguard and teach swim lessons to young children. I believe in being kind and respectful and am always willing to help people. During the school year, I play sports which have also played a big part in my life and taught me many new things. I have been on the varsity swim and soccer teams all through high school. I will be swim captain this year and was the soccer captain last year and will be captain in spring of 2023. 

My father is now retired from the Marine Corps but still lives by their motto “Semper Fidelis” which means always faithful. I am and will always be a faithful friend and leader. I am dependable and responsible. The CORE values of the Marine Corps; honor, courage, and commitment are also instilled in me. With these morals and values in mind, I strive to maintain and enhance my own character by what I believe in. 

Academically, I aspire to pursue a career that involves anything from helping others, discovering the outdoors, traveling, and/or anything sports related.