The characteristic I value most in myself is perseverance. It means not quitting despite challenges, failures, or opposition. While facing challenges in life, I never gave up because I reminded myself of what made me start. When I ran track in high school, I always thought I was slow because I didn’t get the time I wanted. However, I still showed up for practice every day and gave 100%. My perseverance paid off when my time improved. At Districts, I placed 7th overall in the 400m and qualified for the PIAA Track & Field State Championships. I joined the Marine Corps after graduating high school. I wanted to challenge myself mentally and physically, so I told my recruiter I’d like to join the infantry. Ashton Carter, former secretary of defense, opened up all combat jobs for women in 2016. My recruiter tried to talk me out of it because infantry life is tough. I was told most females do not graduate from the Infantry Training Battalion after boot camp. Despite everything that was said to discourage me, I chose that job. My biggest fear at boot camp was the swim qualification, since I couldn’t swim. During the first four days, I failed to pass the swim qualification. The thought of being dropped back into training if I didn’t pass on the fifth day really discouraged me. Rather than losing hope, I prayed the day before. After perseverance and hard work, I finally passed the swim qualification. Sadly, I was dropped two weeks into training after failing something else. It broke my heart because I was so close to graduating. In a letter, I informed my family that I had been dropped and felt discouraged. I received a letter from my dad telling me to read Psalm 23:1-6 and pictures of my family to motivate me. Then I reminded myself of why I started this journey. My perseverance set me apart from my peers at my new company. During boot camp, I got promoted to Private First Class and pinned by my old drill instructor. After the Crucible (a 54-hour event that validates your mental, physical, and moral strength). I finally earned the title of United States Marine. Upon completion of boot camp, I was assigned to the Infantry Training Battalion (ITB), where I was the only female in my company. I worked as hard as the men and passed every test. My journey was difficult, but I pushed myself through various obstacles. In the end, I graduated from ITB and joined the Fleet Marine Force. My Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is 0311, infantry rifleman. I’m getting out of the Marine Corps this year and looking forward to attending college full time and running track. I hope to become a professional track and field athlete. The perseverance I have will enable me to overcome whatever life throws at me. The sky has no limits and neither do I.