William Stream

I've first off like to address my gratitude towards the Honor Society for inviting me into their prestigious organization. I have hopes that this will put me out there for employers and possible grad schools I apply for. My four years spent at Superior High School was nothing short of incredible. I had all the support a growing man could ask for from my parents, teachers, coaches. I made my strongest bonds with my teammates I had over my four years of varsity sports. I mention this because I truly believe if it wasn't for the support of the teams I was on I would not be where I am today. Four years of football and basketball taught a lot of life skills that have helped me excel in all aspects of my life. It taught me how to be patient with others, how to be a friendly face to those people you've never met before, how to be strong when you want to quit, how to be the best teammate I can be, how to be coach-able while being able to learn from my mistakes, and most importantly, how to be a leader. Being a captain of my football and basketball team showed me a lot of things. I learned how to deal with pressure and how to lead by example. The confidence I gained from sports helped me succeed in High School. I was very happy to be accepted into a great college like the University of Minnesota Duluth. I knew I would have to push myself harder than ever before. I owe any and all of my success to the drive I've had since as long as I can remember. If you ask me what my biggest fear is, I would without hesitation say "failing". I refuse to have a mediocre life that I am not proud of. I realized early on that college isn't high school. I know that sounds obvious, but not everyone realizes it. Right away I did decided that I can not go through college just to get a degree. I decided that I want to learn, and I want to set myself and my family up for the best possible life. The best way I could do that is by being a good, friendly person and by being smart. I mean that in a multitude of ways. I had to be smart with my actions. I had to refrain from what my peers have been doing. I took all the time most people used for parties and games to study. I did not confine myself to my room to study, but I found a perfect balance of not slacking off and still keep myself in shape and connected with my family and friends. Nearly two years later and I am currently holding a 3.5 GPA and a very happy life. I realize that everyday in school puts me deeper into debt. If I fail, or drop out, I am chest deep in dept with no "shovel". That's why I have and will continue to take advantage of every scholarship I receive and every opportunity I have to learn.
My greatest advantage is the understanding that life doesn't stop for you. You have to figure out how badly you want something before it's too late. You have to stop taking the easy route and work hard at something because nothing comes easy, and the only way anyone can make something of themselves is by always pushing themselves to be the best they can be. I was never the smartest kid in the class growing up, I can admit that. I used to think I could never succeed in difficult college classes. Now I know I can. I know I can do anything if I put the time and heart into it. I've learned no one is just "smart", the difference between those who have the dream job and those who fail is how far you're willing to go. I believe that as long as you are dedicated and set your goals high that you can accomplish anything. I know for a fact there are smarter individuals out there, but I can promise my dedication and drive will eventually out-will anyone's intelligence.