From the time I was 4 years old, it became rather apparent that I was not destined for a traditional childhood. I would not be getting on the bus each morning for the next 13 years of my life. Nor would I spend the four “free” years after that at the best college I could get into. I would take a different track.
My mom sat me down at a makeshift desk when I was four and began teaching me to read, add, and subtract. The classroom at home did not last more than a couple of months, but that does not mean that I was sent to school. It simply meant that my mom quickly realized there was more to childhood than book learning. (Did I mention that she is a wise woman?)
Neither I nor any of my five younger siblings have gone to school, and we all like it that way. Through the years, we’ve developed friendships and connections with other homeschooled kids. I’ve seen some of them move onto that more traditional college route, but I never wanted to.
Sports and other extracurricular activities have gotten us interacting with other people from the community: both peers and adults. As a 14-year-old, I tried out for the baseball team of the local high school and earned a varsity spot. I played with that team for four years, earning a position as captain.
Golf has been a constant in my life since I started walking, and on courses like Natanis in Vassalboro, Maine, and Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, I have learned as much or more as many get out of a traditional classroom. I was able to convert my passion into trophies and newspaper write-ups when I joined the high school golf team, playing the number-one position for four years. That led to plenty of tournament play, here in Maine and throughout New England.
My job experience includes positions at Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, L.L. Bean, and Barnes & Noble Booksellers.
While I have gotten something unique out of each experience, I have approached them all in the same manner: with creativity, determination, hard work, the desire to lead, and a vision that keeps me on the lookout for what others may have missed.
I am Luke Ruffing. How can I help you today?