Dejah Okonji '22 Recruiting Profile

My goal for college is to study Kinesiology in order to become a Coach. This is my career aspiration because I want to give back to the community that has invested so much time and energy into my track career. I want to be a motivation and encouragement to other little girls, the way I look up to and admire Allyson Felix and Sanya Richards-Ross. Earning a college degree is equal to success, stability, and satisfaction. I will be successful, whether I start my own track club or coach for school district. College will help me start a successful career. I will have job and life stability because I will be able to do many things as a coach. I will have the ability to help at impact many lives as a coach. And finally, I will be satisfied when I graduate with my degree in kinesiology because I will know that I have learned something amazing.

I will be a good candidate for any track team because I have learned many things as a long-term member of a local Track Club. I have learned how to be a good teammate and leader, I have learned that it isn't always important to work hard give my best. Most importantly I have learned the importance of being coachable and listening to those with more experience and knowledge than I. I am goal-oriented and focused on reaching my goals. I will always represent my team, and myself with honor and pride, because I believe in myself and my team. I will always show good sportsmanship, work twice as hard to get where I want, and always fight through the pain. I will never give up on myself, my team, or coaches.

I am different from other recruits because I recognize the importance of being honest and responsible for myself. I know that no one can accomplish my goals except myself. And I take great pride in excellence. It is important to always do my best, always give 100% in everything that I do. As an Athlete, I always try to lead by example, remember to be respectful to my coaches and my peers, and to always remember that it is a privilege to be a part of the team. I understand that my academics are my priority and without being successful in my classes, I cannot run track! No track, no scholarship. I am different because I have learned many lie lessons, including the importance of being a well-rounded student, managing my time, and prioritizing, and balancing my academics and my athletics.