2011 Scholarship Entry #26: Theo Chu

In our society, one problem facing many young athletes today is the necessary discipline to hone one's full potential. Time after time, international media shows us the fame and glory of world famous and record-breaking athletes. Although we recognize these individuals for their achievements, it is the underlying story that we should really pay attention to and admire about these role models. Without a doubt, perseverance can go a long way on one's journey, but there are many other factors that can help achieve an athlete's goals such as nutrition to nourish the body and even patience to overcome an injury.

These are the things that seem to be less significant to aspiring athletes. As both a dedicated student and competitive athlete, my interests have led me to pursue a career with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. With this degree, my intent is to get accepted into Medicine and become a Sports Medicine Doctor. Such a job would allow me to reach out to athletes who are still in their growing stages and guide them to the next level.

The passion of the game is what mainly drives young athletes in this modern day. With this mindset and an education of the importance of health in athletes, the chances of getting closer to one's dreams would increase greatly. Being a sports medicine doctor would enable me to acquire the knowledge needed to enlighten people and lead them to their success. Through first-hand experience in a highly competitive environment of soccer, I have seen many individuals who had the ability to become outstanding athletes. With a lack of guidance, however, their path was altered and they never had the chance to flourish. These are the people who have inspired me to reach for my goals and made me want to help prevent these minor setbacks from holding anybody back.

The power of proper nutrition can amazingly bring you that much closer to accomplishment. It is most definitely a factor that can separate a good athlete from a great athlete. Another concern is also the eagerness of athletes to jump back up on their feet after an injury; it is crucial to wait the right amount of time before being active again. Learning the mechanics of the human body would allow me to guide athletes through rehabilitation and also show them the necessary measures to keep healthy so they may still pursue their dreams. Ultimately, becoming a specialized doctor would help me to aid young athletes in their goals and endeavors not only in sports, but everyday life as well. Having people to guide me through my younger stages made me really grateful, and I feel the role I would like to play in society is returning the favour, and bringing joy to others as it was brought to me. Earning this title would give me the chance to promote the importance of an active, healthy lifestyle, and in turn, my patients could pass on this knowledge to many others.