Ever since third grade, I have been battling my dad for the title of the household chess champion. When I was young, he taught me the rules and how each piece moves. I caught on quickly, and I desired to learn more about this complicated game. I challenged my dad frequently, but being only a beginner, I lost every time. My losing streak did not discourage me, though. As we played more often, certain tactics became clear to me, and I started to catch up to my father. Now, our chess skills are about even, and we both enjoy playing against each other. Because of my chess experiences with my dad, I began to appreciate the game and its strategies.

Chess forces me to think in ways that aren’t often necessary in the real world. I must plan several