The person who has had a significant influence on me is my martial arts karate instructor. My karate instructor Master Kuns has had a tremendous influence on me. At first, I thought karate was not for me because I thought it would be boring. However, when I arrived at the Iron Dragon Karate School, they greeted me with open arms. Master Kuns immediately calls me up to introduce myself to everyone. For my first task, I had to prove to the class that I was the most responsible person on the team and I wanted to be a team player. Master Kuns encouraged me to work hard and never give up my dream. Master Kuns helped me to design a workout so I would feel comfortable preparing for my next degree belt. Master Kuns would have me do push ups, sit-ups, stretches, kicks and other exercises. He has me doing this for two hours a day and five days a week. It was tedious work but I did not quit. Master Kuns informed his students and me that on his spare time, anyone that needed extra assistance could come by the school and he would help. Master Kuns would work with me to prepare for the next color belt. In the end, I finally learned to surpass to the next level; something I never thought I would be able to do. More importantly, I realized that Master Kuns taught me to believe in myself. He revealed my weaknesses as well as the strengths that I needed to achieve my goals. If I put my mind to it, one day I can teach others on how to reach their goals. At graduation day, Master Kuns chose me to display the technique of a kick because he believes I did it very well. My hard work paid off and I moved on my purple belt. I was proud that I had finally won his respect as a member of the team. My achievement meant more to me than any karate belt. This experience has motivated me to work hard and succeed in life. Thanks to Master Kuns, I now hold the confidence to take on and excel in new challenges.