Senior Stories: John, Developing Mental Endurance
John Solis has completed three seasons with Students Run LA (SRLA) and is a recent graduate of San Pedro High School. John was also awarded the SRLA Scholarship this year. John plans on attending Los Angeles Harbor College, where he will major in Nursing. Read more about John’s SRLA journey in his own words below.
John running during the 2023 Los Angeles Marathon.
A character trait that I have significantly developed through my SRLA experience over the past three years is my endurance.
My first year at SRLA, my endurance was horrible because I didn’t know how to properly run or keep up with my team during their runs. In addition, my mind and body were not prepared for this type of activity after the pandemic because I gained weight and wasn't used to running like before. Thankfully, I endured the long runs and training to prepare myself for the LA marathon because it meant a lot to me being able to finish the marathon and prove to myself that I was ready to join Cross Country in my high school. I endured everything I put myself through because of my coaches and the people in my life that I hold dear to and mentally prepared myself for the long road ahead.
I am thankful for the decision I made on taking this program because I had a wonderful time with all of the things I did, saw, and experienced while I was running for SRLA over the past three years. I envision my trait having a positive effect on my future because I know now to never give up even when it’s hard for me in the beginning. I know I need to adapt and keep trying like I did when I was running with SRLA. Even if it hurts me, or if I feel worried and nervous, I will know how to endure and thrive.
John celebrating his SRLA Medals and Scholar-Athlete Award.
John Celebrating His Commitment to Los Angeles Mission College.
My participation in this program has shaped my personal growth due to my experiences and interactions with my teammates, leaders, family, and friends. When I was running in events for this program for the first time, I didn’t know what to expect. There was a fear because I didn't know anyone or feel encouraged to run. However, after running more, I saw volunteers handing out snacks and water to the runners. Seeing that they were around my age gave me the support I needed; it encouraged me not to stop.
I felt a strong connection because of how they helped and encouraged me and others while running my first event. There was warmth in my heart because of that. I grew to do the same thing the volunteers did in a running event called Conquer the Bridge, where I was a volunteer handing out water at a water station and encouraging runners to stay hydrated and to never give up.
My family also made me personally grow because of how proud they were and my self esteem improved thanks to running as well as my love for myself. In conclusion, my participation in this program has helped me improve myself by teaching me how to run, socialize, have fun, and making me feel like I am a part of this community.