Raptors Had Tied the Game

¶ … Raptors had tied the game with less than a minute to go. Stymied, we tried to run the ball in but there simply wasn't enough time to score a touchdown. Coach Malcom called a time out.

It's all up to you Anzor," he said, looking me straight in the eye. "I know you can do this."

The captain of the team and one of my closest friends grinned and slapped me on the back.

Yeah! We're gonna win this baby!" Pedro's enthusiasm, contagious as always, rubbed off on the entire team, which would otherwise have felt entirely frustrated from blowing our lead so late in the game.

The pressure was on. Last year's all county kicker, I knew I could pull off a 35-yard field goal. However, I'd never done it under this much pressure. This game would determine who went on to the county championships.

Without wasting time I sauntered onto the field, closed my eyes, and took a deep breath. A smile crept over my face, easing the intensity and relaxing every muscle in my body. I was ready. The kick made it, easy. We won the game, made it to county, and I was carried off the field by four of my teammates.

Victory often arrives under pressure. Even at a young age I am aware that success doesn't come easy. I worked hard throughout high school to be the best at my favorite sport. Now that I need to focus more on a career, I need to apply the same energy and enthusiasm to my academics as I do on the field.

I am drawn to the computer industry because of the same reasons I am drawn to football: challenge, competition, collaboration, and cooperation. The football field and the field of computer science create challenging situations that must be faced with grace and integrity. Just as I rose to the occasion to help my football team under many difficult circumstances, so too will be able to assist clients and coworkers accomplish anything. I don't shy away from hard work and effort. I have already taken several computer science courses that enriched and stimulated me, offering me the basic knowledge that will prepare me for further education in the field. Therefore, I apply to Montclair State already aware of the particular set of challenges computers pose.

As a college applicant, I am also aware that university entry is highly competitive, every bit as competitive as football. With my unique background and special set of talents, however, I am confident that I make an ideal candidate for admissions. Not only have I excelled at computer science classes, but I also do well in general math and science as well as the humanities. Moreover, I am focused and determined to succeed in my chosen field, while at the same time open and interested in learning new things.