As an 18-year-old mechanical engineering student at Auburn University and a member of the Auburn Bass Fishing Team, I try to demonstrate character, sportsmanship, and work ethic in every area of my life. For me, character starts with integrity. On the water, that means following every tournament rule, respecting other anglers’ space, and being honest in every situation, even when it would be easy to justify cutting a corner. Competitive fishing can be intense, but I believe how you compete matters just as much as where you finish. When I have a tough tournament or lose a fish that could have made a difference, I don’t blame conditions or other people. I take responsibility, evaluate what I could have done better, and use it as motivation to improve. I understand that when I compete, I represent Auburn University, my teammates, and my family, and I want my actions to reflect that responsibility. Sportsmanship is something I value just as highly. I compete because I love to win, but I also respect the competitors around me. I make an effort to congratulate other anglers, support my teammates, and carry myself with professionalism at weigh-ins and events. If another competitor is experiencing boat trouble and I am in a position to help safely, I will. I believe bass fishing is a community, and the way we treat one another shapes the future of the sport. Off the water, I try to be someone younger anglers can look up to by being approachable, willing to share advice, and encouraging others who are passionate about fishing. Representing Auburn means more than wearing a jersey—it means setting a positive example wherever I go. My work ethic is shaped by balancing a demanding major with competitive athletics. Studying mechanical engineering has taught me discipline, time management, and how to approach challenges analytically. I apply that same mindset to fishing. I don’t just practice randomly; I study seasonal patterns, analyze results, and constantly look for ways to gain an edge. One of the ways I push myself is by designing and 3D printing my own lures using CAD software. I experiment with different weight placements, joint designs, and sink rates, then test them on the water and refine them based on performance. That cycle of designing, testing, and improving takes patience and persistence, but it reflects my commitment to growth. Whether in the classroom, the community, or on tournament day, I strive to represent Auburn with integrity, competitiveness, and a strong work ethic.