Discus Award Winner
Winners Gallery
PHOTOS
Connor Potts
12th Grade, TX
ATTRIBUTES
Academics
Ever since my brother finished high school with a 4.0 GPA, expectations were set high for me. Whenever I thought about not studying or skipping a homework assignment, I thought about how hard my brother had to work to achieve his goals. Staying up an extra hour every night really paid off for me, as I was just admitted into Harvard. Unlike most kids, I hate the easy blow off classes. There is nothing better than a challenge such as one that is offered in an AP Economics class. I really enjoy school, which is why Harvard is a good fit for me. Sometimes I just want to be like the rest of my class and get by, but I realize this is hazardous in the long run. Getting a low A in a class would usually earn some reward, but in my family I am urged to try harder to get those few extra points.
Athletics
There is nothing better than sports. I believe they go hand in hand with academics, because to be successful in either, a great deal of motivation, discipline, and competition is needed. My passion is football. It is the only sport I can think of that requires a love for the game necessary to play. You cannot put in all the extra hours of lifting and watching film unless you love the game. As a senior left tackle on the offensive line, I was voted one of the captains of the team. Despite earning all-district and all-city awards for three years, the thing I appreciated most about football was the fact that all the other players looked up to me when things were not going in our favor. The feeling of leadership has taught me that you need more than talent to be good at a sport.
Community Service
Giving back is one of my favorite things to do. On Sunday mornings, I find myself at the local animal shelter feeding cats, washing dogs, and cleaning out cages. I love the look on a dog’s face when you give them all the attention in the world. It is priceless. As a college bound football player, many pee wee and middle school players look up to me as a hero. Whenever one of them approaches me, I try my best to give them a tip and some advice to better their game. I cannot even describe the feeling I get when people ask me for an autograph or to take a picture with their child. They thank me all the time, but I should be the one thanking them. They are my motivation to achieve all I can. If everybody would lend some of their time and hard work, the world would be a much happier place.
