When I was no older than the age of 4 my father passed away after a long and arduous battle with cancer. My mother raised 3 children on her own as well as run a 80 acre farm. The tenants my mom lives by are the ones I apply to my passions and goals. I was raised to work harder and I believe that sets me apart. I value my education more than anything, which is why I want a strong academic University. My wish is to contribute to a collegiate cross-country team and to a University.