ESSAY GALLERY: Making Your Mark for Good Contest

5,200 miles of sweat, fear, and persistence fueled my post-college education. Treading the fine line of altruism and masochism, I dodged lightning bolts, bears, and survived on 16 lbs. of peanut butter, cycling coast to coast in an effort to raise tuition for student-athletes with financial need. A history of educational risk-taking spurred this “Trek for Tuition” – I transferred, dropped out for a year, and in returning, joined the Div. 1 Crew team with no prior experience. Graduating as an Atlantic-10 Rowing gold medal recipient, compelled to give back, I established a scholarship fund with the intent of raising $1/mile cycled. I have completed the physical task of crossing the country under pedal power (2,000 miles unexpectedly solo!), but have only raised $3,800 to date. Education is empowerment, and I hope to give another student the opportunity to reach their academic potential.