Packing up for college move-in this week was crazy, but the best part was looking through my old belongings from middle school and high school that I had kept in my closet, like all of the sentimental items and things that were important to me at different times. One of the most interesting things I found was from when I used to be a swimmer. It was a special Olympic edition of a magazine that I think my grandma had bought for me, from 2008, when Michael Phelps made waves for his medals, times and outstanding successes at the Beijing games.

Just last night I watched the final race of Phelps's career, or what he has said will be the last race. It was such a full-circle moment having cheered for him for so many years. Watching him speak to reporters after and become overcome with his gratitude and emotion ending such a huge chapter was like watching history unfold.

Phelps has 28 medals now, 23 of which are gold. He is the most decorated Olympian of all time. But his story is one that was far from an easy journey. He struggled as a child, didn't have a typical family situation without his father in the picture and his swimming career had ups and downs when it came to his run in with the media and smoking incident.

But through all of it, seeing Phelps take the stage for a final time to swim the relay at the end of the Olympic meet has taught me the most remarkable lessons, for athletes and everyone -- being in the spotlight doesn't mean you aren't human and that you can't mess up. Phelps has taught so many what it means to keep working, get back up and reform yourself to become the best version of yourself.

I think it says a lot that he has chosen to move forward with being a father and retire from the sport, as sad as it makes me. Watching him race is like nothing else; he is incredible and for anyone who has ever had experience with the sport of swimming, he's god-like. But seeing him take the next step will be remarkable. Knowing his impact, I'm positive that he will continue to leave a legacy and shape the sport of swimming.

There is something so important about the image and legacy of Michael Phelps. It is one that teaches young people to put their best foot forward, keep working and rise above challenges. He changed swimming, changed the Olympics and changed many perspectives on hard work and perseverance.