Sydney Parks '16 Recruiting Profile

The opportunity to run in college will determine what college I attend. Cross Country has made me who I am today. There are many qualities to being an effective leader and everyone is capable of becoming one. Believing in yourself is most important because your attitude reflects on others. Believing in yourself comes with confidence. For example, Cross Country has changed my outlooks tremendously throughout the years not only my mind during a race but also in person. I have joined Communications club, Red Cross club, and Yearbook club in school. I was chosen to attend the Hugh O’Brian Leadership Program for sophomores by our school administration. I have been the Class President and have been one of the Cross Country captains throughout my high school career. I have learned to inspire others with a positive attitude and to never judge. Cross Country has made me want to help others succeed. Good relationships with my peers lead me to a more open lifestyle and not be afraid to speak up. After school, I tutor kids that are in middle and lower school when they need help in some of their classes. I also have a job at a Boutique. I have trained many of my friends who have never ran before to run a 5k and to love running.  I also train myself during the winter and summer by following Hal Hidgeon’s training book. I have ran 5k’s, 8k’s, 14k’s and a Half Marathon on my own and trained myself for them. My passion for Cross Country continues to grow. Never give up on things in life because there are so many things you can accomplish and I've learned that through this sport.