Personal Statement

Born prematurely in Russia, I fought for survival during a four-month stint in the hospital before finding myself in an orphanage. At just 18 months old, I was fortunate to be adopted by loving parents and brought to the United States. Despite facing numerous challenges at a tender age, my resilience, determination, and drive propelled me forward. Football became my sanctuary at the age of seven, shaping not just my physical prowess but instilling discipline, mental fortitude, and pride.

My journey to overcome obstacles has been marked by my consistent presence on the highest honor roll since sixth grade and my ongoing pursuit of strength. I am the youngest member of the prestigious 1,000 lb club at Chenango Forks High School—a testament to my dedication and perseverance. Looking ahead, my aspirations extend beyond the football field; I aim to pursue a college education, possibly majoring in either finance or astrophysics, as I continue to strive for excellence on and off the field.