The first born, the first grandson, the first nephew, the first baseball player in our family. These are some of the descriptions that you'll hear about Jordan Spencer. Being the first at anything comes with great pride and even greater responsibility. You are aware of the status; don't take it lightly but also try to juggle the heaviness of it. 

 

As the older brother, I know I have my younger sister watching me. My actions and decisions can shape my sister's relationship with me and decisions she may make based on witnessing the outcomes of mine. As a grandson and nephew, you get all the frills of being spoiled, followed by responsibility. Exploring a new sport, you get looks and questions about why, especially when it's not the typical sport of your community.

 

While this can be overwhelming at times, this has also shaped who I AM. It has also awakened my want to reach back, just like the many first before me have. I am free to create, decide and move without comparison, boundaries or limits. However, this freedom does come with price. I still have high expectations to succeed despite moving through the unknown.

 

Coming from a family full of those that have achieved higher learning, academic success has been a must. I have learned to manage to attain this while maneuvering down this path I am creating. It has been challenging but even more fulfilling. I have had some awesome experiences and found so much about myself.

 

As a first, I have created a path of my own, while giving others hope to do it. I have learned that you can do it first, be scared, fail and still succeed. I am still creating my path...