I competed in my first triathlon at age six just so that I could be like my big brother. I vaguely recall the nervous feeling and pre-race jitters that have become second nature today.

Growing up I remember dreading the running portion of the races, and I can even think back to elementary school with the infamous “5 minute run” in PE class, which I also hated.

Somewhere along the way though after competing in more triathlons over the years and watching my brother join the High School Cross-Country team I decided I wanted to follow in his footsteps.

By the time my freshmen year rolled around I was not just somewhat into running.

I was addicted.

While it surely didn’t happen overnight, before I knew it the sport of running had become my entire world. After the runner’s high of being my Cross-Country team’s third-fastest seed my first season, I decided to continue running for both the Indoor and Outdoor Track Teams.

Everything I did revolved around if I should finish my AP US History homework or get enough sleep for the big meet that weekend. During the stint of my High School career, I went on to qualify for all 12 State Championship Meets and had the privilege of winning five State Championships with my team. When it came time for college to start, I was worried I was going to leave my love of running behind as I turned down all the running scholarships I was offered, to attend my dream school, NC State.

Thankfully, however, two years later I can still say that I am as obsessed with the sport as ever. I seriously could not be more thankful for all that it has taught me and the new perspective it has given me. Most importantly I could not be more thankful for my older brother who led me to this love.

Self-discipline, focus, perseverance, and determination are just a few of the many attributes I have learned from this sport that have translated to incredible life skills that I use every single day.

This past November I ran my first full marathon, despite an injured knee, I somehow still broke my goal time of sub-four hours. I credit it all to the passion, drive and pure love I have for this sport. Through training for something as rigorous as a 26.2-mile run, I have learned that I truly can do anything I set my mind to.

Running has changed the way I think all together and it has given me an entirely new perspective.

Whether you’re a runner or not, I think there is something for everyone to take away from the sport. Even if it scares you, I encourage you to give it a try. The opportunities for self-growth are endless, and I promise you won't regret it.