Paulina Guerrero's Women's Rowing Recruiting Profile

Personal Statement

  My rowing experience began at the Camacho Activity Center, which teaches rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, and other sports to the kids in my neighborhood. I continue to visit and volunteer today.  At one point during my eleven years going to Camacho, I was given the opportunity to try a rowing class.  I gave it a shot and quickly knew I wanted to pursue this.

  The next step in my rowing journey brought me to the Austin Rowing Club.  My novice year was a blast - I made new friends, learned the fundamentals, won a few races, and was even voted captain by my teammates.  The varsity squad was a step up.  I was intimidated when I first joined because of my small stature relative to the other girls.  I initially doubted my worth as a teammate. However, I used this doubt as fuel to push myself to new heights as a rower, a teammate, and an individual.  

  Rowing has opened many doors for me and taught many lessons that have made me a better person. The first lesson is the importance of work ethic in tackling difficult challenges. I have worked hard for my grades and have taken more difficult classes this year to push and improve myself.  Another lesson is LESSON ON TEAMWORK - my friends tell me that I should become someone that is their to help others or seek advice. I want to become part of a team that is hard working and doesn't give up. Finally, rowing has taught me that when you set your mind on a particular goal, you do the best you can to fulfill it. Life may be full of ups and downs, but you cannot let the worst get the best of you. Even after a loss, you cannot give up and call it quits.  Instead you must pick yourself back up and go harder. My motto is: you shouldn’t let people think of you differently because of your appearance, that you should show them how great you are and to not let them push you down.