By Andrew
Andrew, a senior at Landon School in Maryland, spent this past summer interning for America Succeeds. During his internship, he explored his interest in education reform and supported our mission to highlight the importance and impact of students cultivating durable skills. Continue reading to discover how Andrew’s development of these skills has contributed to his personal and academic growth.
High school sports have profoundly impacted my educational journey, shaping not only my athletic abilities, but also my approach to life and learning. Over the past three years, my experiences in football, rugby, and lacrosse at Landon School have been transformative, offering lessons that extend far beyond the playing field. Challenges in sports have prompted a shift in my perspective and understanding of what it takes to be successful. The sweat of competition from building a successful team creates an opportunity to learn new skills and adapt strategies. My football and rugby experience have equipped me with valuable durable skills -collaboration, leadership, fortitude, and metacognition – that have become integral to my personal and academic growth.
The Power of Teamwork and Leadership
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from sports is the importance of teamwork and responsibility. In football, everyone must work together toward the same goal, or the team will fall apart. Similarly, in rugby, the game’s fast paced nature requires communication and leadership. These experiences have directly translated to my academic life, particularly in group projects. I’ve found myself applying the same principles of coordination and shared goal-setting that I use on the field to lead and contribute, ensuring everyone is aligned toward a common objective.
Resilience Through Adversity
My journey in sports hasn’t been without its challenges. During my sophomore year, I suffered a torn ACL while fighting for a loose ball. Though the injury was devastating, it ultimately strengthened me and sparked significant personal growth. It tested my resilience and taught me the value of perseverance. These challenges have prepared me to face future obstacles with the resilience and discipline to attack them all head-on.
The Crucial Role of Out-of-Classroom Experiences
I’ve come to realize the critical importance of my experience beyond the traditional classroom setting. The combination of academic learning and real-world challenges provides a unique preparation for future professional endeavors. If students have access to outside-the-classroom opportunities, it will afford them a level of readiness and confidence they wouldn’t otherwise have. In my experience through high school, I would not have had the opportunity to expand my horizons and develop skills without those experiences. The skills attained on the field translate directly into the classroom, leading discussions with a sense of confidence and clarity in academic settings.
A Holistic Approach to Education
Reflecting on my high school sports journey, I see that the lessons learned on the field extend far beyond the game. The challenges and triumphs of football, rugby, and lacrosse have honed my teamwork, leadership, and resilience skills, shaping how I approach academic and professional pursuits. These real-world experiences have been precious, providing me with a unique perspective and tools that have fostered growth and confidence. As I move forward, I carry with me not just the memories of the games but a profound understanding of how these experiences have prepared me for future challenges.
If you have a personal story about how developing durable skills has opened doors for you, we’d love to hear it—share your experience to inspire others!
