By Vanessa Hewitt
I have been playing softball since I was 4 years old, so it has always been a goal of mine to play at the collegiate level. When I finally got here, I had no idea how much it would change my life not just when it comes to athletics, but relationships, academics and the way I think in general.
Softball is a very mental game, and in my opinion, it takes a very strong person to endure the struggles and successes that come along with playing at this level. My teammates are all so strong, and it’s inspiring to play alongside people that are so passionate and determined.
In my previous experience with teammates, I haven’t really connected with them or it takes me until the end of the season to come out of my shell. With my current teammates, the majority of them have been so encouraging, it’s hard not to be myself around them.
Along with that, not only have I developed very rewarding friendships with my teammates, I have also developed a beautiful relationship with myself. Learning how to encourage myself and move through the inevitable failure that comes along with the game has been a very important lesson I have had to learn.
Being a utility player, it gets difficult at times with the constant changing of positions. That constant change and the competition for a position in the back of my mind has been hard nonetheless, but it has forced me to challenge myself and push myself out of my comfort zone. Things that I believe I had to undergo in order to become as strong as I am now.
With that being said, I have also become stronger as a student. Softball has changed my perspective about my academics.
In highschool, I was not the best student. I was very unorganized and only put effort in when I really needed to. Upon my arrival at GRCC, I had the realization that in order to achieve my degree goals, and play alongside my new team I have to put a lot of effort into my academics.
GRCC’s student athlete mentor program helped me with my organization when I first got here, and has had a lasting effect since. Organization comes much easier to me and my grades have reflected how hard I have been working.
Next year, I plan to transfer to GVSU to finish my education and I believe that it was made possible by softball and the determination that came from it. Although I will be ending my softball career after this season, I will not take what I have learned from it for granted.
The obstacles, achievements and relationships have all molded me into the person I am now. I have now learned what I am capable of and seen that I can do what I put my mind to. I am so thankful for this experience, and I will never forget my time here as a GRCC Raider.
