Jessica (NLI Signed 20171108) Akiona '18 Recruiting Profile

I am a mature and focused volleyball player who is truly serious about the game. I compete in indoor and beach doubles year-round where I have made a direct impact and have achieved considerable success. I am extremely committed to my academics and I have shown this commitment through my consistent 4.0 GPA. I am a well-rounded student-athlete and enjoy volunteering my time to worthy causes within my community. Some of my service and volunteer interest are listed below:

• La Pietra Student Counsel Student Body President Elect – 2017-18
• Kupunawaiola (Hospice Volunteer) – 2016-17
• Passport Editor (Foreign Language Magazine) – 2015-17
• La Pietra Student Counsel Freshman Representative (Class of 2018) – 2014-15
• Interact Club Leader – 2015-17) | Member – 2014-15
• Leo Club Member – 2014-15
• Select Choir Member – 2015-17

My area of interest is the medical field where I intend to become either a Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant. I am currently focused on institutions with highly competitive athletic programs which can provide me with a solid medical or nursing degree. I work hard and want to be part of a close-knit group of hardworking champions. I am very trainable and I look forward to adjustments in my form/technique to improve my game. I love my job as a hitter because I truly have the heart of a striker, but I am absolutely open any position on the right team. Although hitting is my primary skill, I have also trained as a setter during the 2015-16 high school & club seasons where I made positive strides. Finally, I have solid defensive skills in both beach and indoor volleyball.

I’ve learned a lot about myself, my teams, and Volleyball throughout the years. My parents love me, support me, and above all remind me to be a good person. They've taught me to love and keep faith in my team, follow my coach’s leadership, and give respect and kindness freely to support the highest levels of teamwork. My father always says, "To be a good leader, you must have been a good follower first". I have seen the truth in that wisdom time and again, and it has given me great perspective in my life. I speak for myself and have never ask my parents to speak on my behalf. This has helped me build my own confidence and has gained me the respect of my coaches. I strive for each victory and never give up, and I’m thankful to be reminded of these values, especially during difficult or disappointing times. My singular hope is that I find the right program for me, a program that really wants my skills and abilities, and most of all, a team that I can consider part of my extended family for life.