Gillian Kasitz '17 Recruiting Profile

    Running has been something present throughout my whole childhood. My mother was a runner, so she was the one who first inspired me. I got interested in it when I played soccer and when I ran few 5Ks in elementary school, I learned that I was fast and actually really enjoyed it.  This junior year has been a rough patch with juggling a job, having five siblings, school sports, and hard academics. Throughout this junior year I really got to learn about myself, especially through track. Running was how I could get through my hard days in school, it got my mind off things and made me determined. Running has taught me how to persevere even when times are rough. It has helped with my work ethic by showing that in working hard and having a passion about what you are doing, it is going to help to get you somewhere in the long run. Besides perseverance,  running has also taught me the importance of being a member of a team.  I've learned the commitment, dedication, and willingness to work hard; not just for myself but  for my track family, and encourage and cheer them on.  As the oldest child of six kids, I've had to learn leadership, organization, and prioritization and time management skills.

    My academic goals for school and college are to pursue my future career in health sciences.  I know that I'll have to work hard to gain a degree in my future field. I would also like to maintain a healthy balance through sports and education.