Alexis Harrell '15 Recruiting Profile

~I have been running track since the age of seven. During this time, I was not serious about it. At the age of eight, I competed in my first Junior Olympic Games in New Orleans and placed second place in both the 100m, and 200m. This really helped build my confidence and proved that I had a gift in this sport. This gave me the motivation I needed to place first in both the 100m, and 200m the following year. I wanted it more than ever, and days even begged my father to practice during my off days. From ages ten to twelve, my times began to drop each year. I competed in various competitive meets against very intense competition of girls my age. I was one of the top sprinters my age, and I knew that I just needed to remain humble, motivated, and work hard.
 At the age of thirteen, my times began to maintain. They were decent, but never progressing. I even found myself running the times at thirteen were the same times I ran in my  ninth, and tenth grade year. During this journey, I lost confidence in myself. I began to not want to practice, and I just lost focus. I felt encourage because I had my parents and coaches in my ear about believing in myself and not giving up. In the beginning of my eleventh grade year, I ran times like 25.80 and 12.40 almost every meet. I told myself that this isn't the end of the road. I knew I could do so much better. I turned my work ethic, and attitude around, and began improving. I ended off my year running times that I never thought I would see. My personal best, 24.71 and 12.07 after running 25 all year gave me the message that I needed. When i want something, and I work hard for it, I can get there.
 I know that I am a good candidate because I am very respectful, I have good work ethic, and I obey orders and harsh criticism. Nothing is easy, and just handed to you. I am willing to work hard, and contribute to my team, and do the very best I can for my team, and for myself as well.