Winner of 43 championships, more than any other American athlete in history, figure skater Michelle Kwan now travels the world to meet with young people as the first United States (U.S.) Public Diplomacy Envoy. Appointed in 2006 by the U.S. Secretary of State, she has spent the last few years, in between her studies, discussing leadership, social and educational roles. In addition, U.S. President Barack Obama recently appointed Kwan to the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.
Visit to the Singapore American School
Having worked with coaches and trainers from all over the world, Kwan discussed what it takes to become a world champion and a good team player to the young people at SAS. "To be successful in sports requires team work, where all individual differences are put aside. The important thing is to work together for the same results," stated Kwan, ". . . . it doesn't matter what color shirt you wear, favorite color, or even things you believe in." What does matter is having respect for one another, continued Kwan.
These same principles apply to life outside of sports. "You are future leaders, all of you and you are living in the wonderful life of opportunity. . . .Today is where your book begins, but the rest you are still living," stated Kwan. She stressed the importance of students getting to know their neighbors and the possibility that they will someday be working with many different cultures.
Kwan continued the discussion by answering a few questions by the students, parents and teachers. When asked about the sacrifices that she has made for her career, she stressed it was her parents that made sacrifices while she made choices. "It was my dream, not my parents," Kwan stated. Her parents would constantly drive all three of their children to practices, competitions and games, she stated. In regards to the choices that have to be made in life, "you have the opportunity to go out and stay out all night with friends, but you have a test tomorrow. So you have to make a decision," stated Kwan. If tough decisions have to be made, especially when it involves people who are a bad influence, "always get back to who you are and what you want," continued Kwan.
When asked if she is happy with the decisions she has made in her life, Kwan simply stated that "I live my life with no regrets." The importance of this statement was taught to her by her father as a child. "Life is a book, there are so many chapters," she continued. Furthermore, she added that it is important to have dreams. "When you have big dreams, you have to make sure you have little dreams, little steps, as well," she stated.
Michelle Kwan's Career Today
Kwan has been traveling with the State Department for the past four years, hoping to continue on that path when she graduates from Tufts University's Fletcher School in May where she will receive her master's degree in international affairs. While in Singapore, she visited the Republic Polytechnic and other schools. She also conducted a skating clinic for children at the Kallang Ice Rink. Back in December of 2010, Kwan opened and performed at the Marina Bay Sands Skating Rink.
For an article on another Olympic champion, Kerri Strug, please see "Countdown to Inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore Has Begun."
Julie Maggiacomo Carrera - Julie's writing career began back in college in the 1990s. However, she considers herself a new writer since she has put this profession ...
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