Field Hockey

NESCAC Friday Feature: Jackie Hill - Colby Field Hockey

Jackie Hill, Colby

Jackie Hill

Colby Field Hockey & Softball

Junior
Franklin, N.H. / Tilton School
Major: Biology with a concentration in neuroscience

Why did you choose to attend Colby?
I chose to attend Colby because I wanted to continue my athletic career and have the ability to excel in a strong academic program. When I toured Colby, I saw that students could be involved in athletics as well as abroad programs and other student organizations. 

Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I chose to be a Division III student-athlete because I wanted to play two sports as well as have a balanced academic and social life. Division III seemed to have the well-rounded lifestyle I was searching for. 

What is the best thing about being part of the NESCAC?
The best thing about being part of the NESCAC is the connections and the alumni network. NESCAC institutions offer so many opportunities to excel after college because there are alumni connections at a majority of desired companies.

What is your dream job/career?
My dream job is to be an entrepreneur on Shark Tank because I grew up watching every episode with my parents and have always wanted to invent some product for the sharks to invest in. 

What is one positive takeaway you learned about yourself during the pandemic
During the pandemic, I learned to appreciate the little things in life like hanging out with my friends in my dorm room or having a team dinner in the dining hall. Once that privilege was taken away, I knew how important those little things were and realized it is better to put my phone down and live in that moment because it is not always a guarantee. 

Is there anything special about your uniform number? 
I have worn number seven for the majority of my athletic career because my parents and brother wore seven when they participated in sports. I wanted to follow in their footsteps so it eventually became the family jersey number. 

What is something you enjoy doing that you never get tired of?
I will never get tired of spending time on Lake Winnipesaukee whether it is watching the sunset over the mountains or boating all day. 

What has been your favorite class outside of your major?
During my sophomore year I took a religious studies class that focused on the historical background of the New Testament. The professor discussed reasons why the stories in the New Testament were written and where they originated from. The class material was interesting because the New Testament is worshiped all around the world and my professor showed us how to interpret different views on the text and question what was historically known at the time it was written. 

What has been the most interesting part of your major?
The most interesting part of my major has been studying neurons because I can apply my knowledge to athletes and understand how the nervous system works in my body. 

What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
The greatest lesson I have learned from being a student-athlete is to spend a few minutes each day relaxing and doing something I enjoy outside of classes and athletics. Life can become hectic and sometimes it is nice to take a step back and just breathe. 

What is your favorite place on your campus?
My favorite place on campus is the locker room in the athletic center because my teammates are either jamming out or strategizing for our next game. 

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS
Three things on your bucket list?
- Learn to surf
- Travel to Greece and Italy
- Attend the CrossFit Games

Favorite thing about your school?
The new athletic center

Favorite thing about fall?
The leaves changing colors

Sunrise or sunset?
Sunset

Dogs or cats?
Dogs

Beach or mountains?
Beach

Favorite quote?
“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” 

Last book you read?
She the Confident by Shay Haddow

Favorite sports hero/figure?
Haley Adams

What makes you laugh the most?
My teammates

What phrase or saying does your coach say often?
“Flirt the line between cocky and confident”