An Amusing Story
Athens, GA
October 14, 2022
[NB: My younger son is in the midst of writing essays to apply for college. Below (in italics) is the essay the University of Georgia asked him to write, and the answer David provided.]
The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application.
I work hard, am a pretty good golfer, and have no hair. Otherwise, I have nothing in common with Michael Jordan. Except we both love basketball. Jordan was famously cut from his high school basketball team. I was too short and slow to make mine. So, I opted for a more competitive league instead.
I decided I’d try out for the Amateur Athletic Union, a league of travel teams that produced such NBA players as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Steph Curry. I figured, if I can’t play, I may as well try-out with the best!
When I arrived, the height disparity was immediately obvious. During the scrimmage, I felt like a blade of grass in a redwood forest. Only I was rooted to the ground while the trees moved around. Having no expectation of making the team, my only goal was to not be embarrassed. As the other players effortlessly drove, dunked, and dished the ball, I figured I’d fail even at that.
Yet if I were to go down, I’d do so with style. I decided to focus on my strengths and do my best. With my limited height, I knew I couldn’t compete near the basket. So, I decided to stay outside so taller players would have someone to pass to when needed. Then I’d pass to another giant who could make the shot.
But the first time I received the ball, my instincts took over. Instead of passing the ball, I shot it myself. It went in. The next time, I made the same choice, and got the same result. This continued throughout the scrimmage. As shots kept falling, my confidence kept rising. I started dribbling, driving, and passing as well as I ever had. I had no idea who I was.
Fortunately, no one else did either. For all they knew, I was as good as they were. Knowing I wasn’t, I had a good laugh and went home, ready to get on with my life. But as amusing as that day was, I soon learned the joke was on me.
I made the team.
David
