The Power of Chocolate It was the fifth set. Up 17-16. We were playing against state-powerhouse rivals who we have not beat for nine years. I was at the peak of exhaustion and the sweat was stinging in my eyes, but chills from the thought of winning unleashed my inner tenacity. The crowd was on their feet, stomping and roaring, like the whole place was going to explode. When I served, I locked in on the ball amidst the beam of the gymnasium light, preparing myself for the explosion. That day, I was serving for a big win, but six years ago, the first ball I served was for a king sized Hershey’s bar. After picking dandelions in left field during softball, enduring the wrath of subpar foot-eye coordination in soccer, tripping over my racquet in tennis, ploughing through five-hour gymnastics practices, passively handing the basketball to an aggressive player, and diving into ice-cold pools for 6am swim practices, it came down to a ball, a net, and a tremendous amount of pressure to hit a serve. While other girls played pattycake, I was tweaking my footwork and ball contact. For them it was a girls' recreational clinic, but for me, it was an opportunity to accomplish a feat. In the end, I was the only 9 year-old in the gym who could serve a ball over the net and I earned the coveted candy bar, but more importantly I sparked an interest for the sport that would come to embody my passion and inspiration. There has always been a part of me that will not settle until I reach my full potential. Volleyball helped me discover that I have a grit in me that will not back away from a challenge. I needed to develop a strong-willed mindset because I adored the feeling of accomplishment and I yearned to continue my journey. At 12, I joined my first travel volleyball team. Initially, I was not a contributor on the team. I allowed the fact that I was an outsider to break down my confidence, which later made me realize that it is inefficient to doubt myself. One day, I stood with my shoulders back for the first time, and played without fear. We went on to become finalists at nationals, where I played the best volleyball I had ever played. I had the aptitude inside me, but I needed to create a wall of confidence in order to display it. Volleyball has shown me that I have faith in myself, which not only helps me conquer hardships, but creates an aura of positivity that also radiates into my surroundings. I have performed my best when I am in an environment that is positive. Volleyball is the epitome of a team sport because every player has to touch the ball in order to score. Being on varsity since sophomore year, I have seen that I perform best when I know my teammates are behind me. Taking on a leadership role as a senior this year, I prioritize creating a supportive atmosphere focused on trust both on the court and with my family and friends. Volleyball has motivated me to think beyond my own world because in the end, there is no substitute for unity and teamwork. There will always be difficulties in all aspects of my life: academics, athletics, family, and jobs, and I have learned to manifest positivity. I served the ball, leading to a shank pass and a victory. The gym exploded in an uproar of excitement, and I fell to the ground, speechless and in utter shock. We conquered the former state champions for the first time in nine years. Volleyball is my reminder that I defeated the obstacles that were holding me back and created a mindset for success serves as a reminder that I am capable of persisting against any roadblock in my path. In my life through volleyball, I have learned my defining characteristics, applied them to grow, and have shared them to help others. More than the best win of my life, I won the ability to strive towards my goals, learn from my mistakes, build a supportive team, and develop a strong-willed mindset.