In no more than 300 words, write about an extracurricular activity and explain why I initially chose it, why I continued with it, and how I benefited from it. This particular story begins one year ago, when I first joined the high school Varsity Football team. Having grown up in China, I was completely unfamiliar with American Football. Since moving to the United States six years ago, I had come to enjoy watching football on television. I liked the fast paced action that is at times not only graceful but also brutally physical. I decided to sign up for the team tryouts, and although the trials were not easy, I miraculously made the cut. However, the first day of practice taught me just how hot and sweaty a summer day could be. Initially feeling like a failure for being repeatedly thrown to the ground, I was depressed but determined to succeed. There was a time when my youthful determination would have faltered and told me to simply surrender, but I am not a young boy anymore, and failure was not an option. Besides the twice daily practice sessions, I also began a physical conditioning program. Every morning at 6:00, I consistently worked out in the weight room, and after the practices, I stayed with the coach to watch and study the game tapes. Although practices with upperclassmen were still punishing, I gradually began to hold my own. So much so that I did get some playing time during our games last season. I am now a starting player for the team, and this year the coach awarded me with “the Most Improved Player” trophy at our banquet. I realize that although my muscles were in fact stronger, it was not the strength of my muscles but my indomitable spirit that enabled me to succeed.