The official visit was highly organized by Lt.Col. Dan Oosterhous, the Head Mens Tennis Coach of the United States Air Force Academy. I had a complete tour of the academy, stayed in the Sijan Hall dorms, and had the privilege to practice with the Team Captain, (with out Coach Oosterhous watching due to NCAA rules and restrictions).

I also had the opportunity to meet with the Head of the Electrical Engineering Department, tour the Electrical Engineering Department and meet with the Academic Advisor for the tennis team, the Head of the Computer Science Department.

 

Not only was my trip well structured, but I also learned about the many historic traditions of a freshman at the Air Force Academy such as only walking in Terrazo, the courtyard in the middle of the Academy, on the outside marble tiles, jogging to class with your backpack in your left hand, and saluting and greeting all commanding officers.   

 

The camaraderie of the tennis team was inspiring because everyone had a great work ethic. Everyone challenges themselves and their teammates daily to work really hard in practice and in the weight room.

 

The college process is quite a journey, and I am learning great life lessons along the way. I've learned to always give 110 percent for everything you do, to be open to college coaches and show them who you are and what you want to achieve both on and off the court in college. I recommend everyone to visit the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs and to meet Coach Oosterhous.