Nilaa Ponnappan '25 Recruiting Profile
Video
Personal Statement
I initially joined cross-country and track to maintain fitness, but it quickly developed into a passion that has shaped my character and future goals. Running isn't just about physical exercise for me; it's a way for me to challenge myself and discover my limits.
My love for running comes from its simplicity – the rush of the breeze, the thrill of competition, and the bond between teammates and coaches. From the challenges of training to the thrill of crossing the finish line, each moment reminds me of my love for the sport and the important life lessons it teaches.
As I plan for college, I intend to continue my athletic pursuits while earning a dual degree in medicine and business. Balancing academics, athletics, and community service has instilled a strong sense of responsibility and time management within me.
I hope to become our class valedictorian and aim to continue my academic success. I aspire to become a future Rhodes or Fulbright scholar, and/or achieve NASA USRP acceptance.
Running in college will allow me to continue my athletic journey, and I hope to improve both personally and professionally. I am eager to embark on this new chapter and am grateful for the opportunity to share my story with you.
Thank you for considering my application!
Athletics
High School Information
- Years w/ Varsity
- 8 years
- 2023 Varsity Team
Individual Awards
- 3200m All Conference Award, 1st Team All-Conference
- 2023 Varsity Team
Individual Awards
- 1st Team All-Conference, Most Valuable Player/Most Valuable Runner
- 2023 Varsity Team
- 2022 Varsity Team
- 2022 Varsity Team
Individual Awards
- Most Valuable Player/Most Valuable Runner, 1st Team All-Conference
- 2022 Varsity Team
- 2021 Varsity Team
Individual Awards
- Most Valuable Player/Most Valuable Runner, 1st Team All-Conference
- 2021 Varsity Team
Coach References
- Private Coach
- Ravi Ponnappan
Training
- Running
- 3 years
Additional Sports
- Tennis
- 8 years
- Varsity Team
- (8 total years of experience, 5 years playing competitively). I have won multiple L7s and L6s (in 14s, 16s, and 18s). My highest UTR ranking is 6.5. I have two true backhands on both sides (similar to professional player Su Wei Hsieh).
Statistics
| Event | 2023 Varsity Team |
|---|---|
| Distance & PR | 5K 19:13 |
Academics
Grades
Test Scores
Academic Accomplishments
Are you in honor classes?
Yes. Honors Algebra II, Honors Precalculus, Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry, Honors Spanish II, Honors Spanish III, Honors Spanish IV, Honors Literature and Composition, Honors American Literature and Composition, Honors US History IAre you in AP/IB classes?
Yes. AP Computer Science A, AP US History, AP English Language and Composition, AP Environmental Science, AP European History, AP Seminar, AP Calculus AB, AP Microeconomics, AP MacroeconomicsRegistered with the NCAA Eligibility Center?
NoAwards and Activities
- AwardsMath Honors Society (Mu Alpha Theta), Spanish Honors Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica), Distinguished Honor Roll (10 times/10 semesters), member of the Pilarz Scholars Honors Program, two-time recipient of the Academic Excellence Award
- ActivitiesPresident/Representative of the Asian & Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APISA), President/re-founder of Model United Nations, President of the International Transfer Student Association (ITSA), President of the Mental Health Awareness Club, member of the STEM club, member of the Black African Student Alliance, member of the Ethics Bowl, member of the Environmental Club, member of the Saint Martin de Porres Society/T.H.E Council, member of the Creative Writing Club, member of SADD, member of REBEL, Singing (competitions/as a hobby), Peer Helper/Peer Aid (for transfer students), member of student government [freshman year], member of choir [sophomore year]
Top NCSA Athletes at Camden Catholic High School
Top NCSA Athletes in Area
