Personal Statement

My name is Carter Stroup, and I am a junior golfer aspiring to play at the collegiate level. I have played golf since I was twelve years old, after my grandfather introduced me to the game. 

I was immediately intrigued by the sport as it requires superb physical skill, tremendous mental toughness, and unwavering dedication, making it the ultimate challenge. The biggest reason I fell in love with golf is the unending competition between my present and best self. Whether I fail or succeed, it is because of the work I did or did not do. In my life, golf has always been an avenue for incredible relationships and experiences.

In my four years of playing golf, I have competed with numerous programs, including PGA Jr. League, Sneds Tour, Hurricane Junior Golf Tour, Southern States Junior Classics, American Junior Golf Association, Tennessee Golf Association, and Tennessee PGA Section. I have drastically improved through these four years, with my scoring average dropping from 91 to 86 to 81 to 77, respectively. Playing golf has taught me numerous lessons I continuously apply throughout my life, including perseverance, patience, and the importance of hard work. Through golf’s unique challenges, I have learned about myself in many ways, including my strategic approach to problem-solving and relentless pursuit to be the best I can be.

Academics have always been a top priority for me, and I currently possess a 4.0 GPA and a 29 ACT score. I also stay active off the golf course and outside of the classroom. In 2020, I created and continue to operate a digital marketing agency called Render Results focused on helping businesses grow their online presence and drive more revenue. Additionally, I host a golf podcast called The Perfect Par, where I interview golf’s greatest minds, including sports psychologists, PGA Tour players, top coaches, and more. 

My mental toughness is one of my biggest strengths, both on and off the golf course. I believe no matter the circumstances, I always have the agency to do whatever is necessary to overcome an obstacle or challenge. Once I determine the correct path, I am relentless in my pursuit of the goals I set for myself. I value being a member of a team and am constantly looking to learn from coaches and individuals better than myself.

Through my homeschool experience, entrepreneurship, and podcast background, I have been able to develop skills and attributes not normally exhibited by my peers, including rigorous time management, a strategic approach to problem-solving, leadership skills, and an unmatched work ethic. I feel these aptitudes will allow me to be a crucial part of a winning collegiate golf team.

Thank you for visiting my profile, and I look forward to what is next.