Triniti Smith '17 Recruiting Profile

My name is Triniti Smith and I aspire to not only be a great student but also a great student-athlete. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA since the 9th grade and I am currently on track to become valedictorian. I scored a 29 on the ACT. Being a well-rounded student has its difficulties but I manage to find a balance between 3 International baccalaureate classes,  3-4 hour practices 3 times a week for volleyball, track, leadership roles at church, household responsibilities, and other extra-curricular activities. Although everyday is stressful, I rarely let my smile drop. I bring a jovial spirit to every team I am on. I get along with my teammates and I have learned what makes my them tick; therefore, when my teammates are down I am able to pick them back up. My parents and grandparents have taught me the value of being selfless. I have watched my mother and father sacrifice in order for my siblings and I to have opportunities. I think I have picked up that trait because I share my food, if someone's ride is late I let them sit in my car or I give them a ride,  I project positive energy to my team, I try to be the best teammate/friend possible. When I was in the 5th grade I was diagnosed with severe idiopathic scoliosis, a few degrees away from requiring surgery. A year later I began playing volleyball. Sports were my only opportunity to get out of wearing my back brace for a few hours a day. Despite the discomfort I feel sometimes,  being able to excel has allowed me to feel normal even with a disfigured spine. I have always had to overcompensate for the way my spine has developed in order to be on an even playing field. I learned to work twice as hard as every one else. That is why I give 110% every time I play. I jump over chairs, dive into crowds, run into other courts because I was taught to do whatever it takes to give my team the best opportunity to win games. Being different has given me the inner fire, strength and determination needed to be successful on the court and in the classroom. I am a good candidate for a team because I give my mind, body, spirit, and soul for success.