14A- Halfway Reflection

Webster defines "tenacious" as "not easily stopped or pulled apart" or "very determined to do something." One of entrepreneurs' most important competencies are their tenaciousness. They persevere, despite all odds, despite waves of negative feedback, and despite failure and rejection.  

Tenaciousness is a competency. What are the behaviors that you have used (or developed) to keep up with the requirements of this course? 

Consistency and tenaciousness have allowed me to stay up to date with this course. Although this class is another class on the road to graduation, It is important to take everything that can be applied from this course, and use it as a learning curve for the future. This course has taught me to be consistent and put fourth effort into a course that can be quite tedious. Life can be very tedious, making this class the perfect stepping stool from the classroom to real life and work.

2) Tenaciousness is also about attitude. Talk about a moment or two when you felt like "giving up." What pulled you through? Do you feel like you've developed a tenacious attitude during the past two months? What experience or experiences most contributed to this?

There were many times during my baseball career that I felt like giving up. In my senior year, I really struggled to obtain offers from any schools I really wanted to commit my next 4 years to. This was tough for a kid who always dreamed of continuing his playing career at the college level. Finally, I decided to lessen the commitment from 4 years, to 2 years and chose the Junior College route. In an attempt to save money and plan for my future more accordingly, I forgave many out of state collegiate offers, for an opportunity to try out as a walk on at my local Junior College. I achieved this goal of reaching the collegiate level, and after a year realized that I was destined for more academically. I then finished my AA at Santa Fe and applied at the University of Florida. After a few years of hard work academically, I was able to become a student at one of the best public universities in the country!

3) Three tips. What are three tips you would offer next semester's student about (1) fostering the skills that support tenacity and (2) developing the 'tenacious mindset' ?

Tenacity is something that must come naturally, though, it can be learned and adopted by those willing to work hard. Tenaciousness is something that almost every athlete possesses, though it can be tough to carry it from the playing field, to the classroom or office. When someone has a passion and drive for something that matters to them, they will naturally possess this tenaciousness. It’s something that cannot be replaced, and it is something that will drive and motivate an individual. Developing a tenacious mindset is something that will develop as a result of caring and being invested in whatever it is you are doing. I have developed this tenacious attitude towards my academic career. As I am nearing the end of this career, I am remaining focused on the task at hand, which is graduating from The University of Florida. This is something I have dreamed about, my parents have hoped for, and my family is rooting on me to achieve. I have had a different road to this point than others, but still look forward to achieving this goal, nonetheless. This has been a product of my investment in myself, my academic career, and the support and love of my family.