Ethan Painter '12 Recruiting Profile

Growing up in a middle class family in California, quickly taught me that you must work to reach your goals. I was never teeing it up every weekend at one of the premier country clubs, or sporting the best clubs and attire. Nothing has ever been handed to me unless I earned it through my own abilities. I tend to hate the possibility of being the odd man out in any competition, so I make sure to work hard until I reach my competitors level or even better them. My parents always nudged me from a young age to go out and tackle problems that I would face independently, and I adapted that trait rather quickly. Sometimes that independent mind frame hurt me as I would neglect outside help on my golf game. However, after a frustrating first two years of high school golf, in my junior season, I opened my ears all the way to the Texas 3A regional tournament as a medalist. This is by far my most memorable accomplishment because of the 360 degree change I made with my golf game in under a year.
Geographically speaking, it does not bother me to venture out a little ways from Texas. Our family travels all over the world, so I am used to the adventure being away from home brings. Ideally though, staying in Texas close to family and support would be great, but not a necessity. The size fits about the same criteria. A big school would be awesome, really getting the full college experience, but again I would not be opposed to a smaller school with the right enviornment. 
Entering college I hope to major in Finance and get my Master's degree. My mother has her Master's in business management so I would feel unaccomplished if I did not receive one of my own. I think the best situation for me possibly playing golf at the next level, is finding a team that does not expect more than what my abilities provide. To me, golf is meant to alleviate pressure and stress, not constantly create it. However, I think given the opportunity, I could put in the time needed to have a contributing role for a golf program.