Why did you choose to attend Wesleyan?
During my college search, I found myself looking for a school that was reasonably sized and well-connected both in student-teacher and student-student relationships. I also wanted a school that would allow me to reach my potential and even push me beyond what I thought I could achieve. Throw in my East Coast preference and you’re left with only a few schools that fit the bill. And, after a conversation with my soon-to-be coach, I knew Wesleyan was the only school for me.
Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
Although I had options for different schools, Division III felt like the only choice for me. I wanted to prioritize my education but still be surrounded by a competitive atmosphere. I love to push my limits and step out of my comfort zone and Division III is a great way to do just that.
What is the best thing about being part of the NESCAC?
I believe that one of the best parts of the NESCAC is the connections you form, even between schools. As you’ll read in a later question, even though I attend Wesleyan, an opportunity an alumnus from Bates provided to me was a key turning point in my career goals. The rivalry between the schools fuels our competitive spirit throughout our time in college, but it develops into a deep form of respect after we graduate.
You have a blank canvas and could paint your perfect day, what does it look like?
My perfect day would start with a cross-country Saturday meet. The team would pack run together and set some big PRs. Afterward, I’d go perform a solo at an a cappella concert with the team in the audience cheering my group on. With some relaxation in between it all, I’d end the day hanging out with friends and maybe get some late-night at Summies.
What extracurricular activities or service activities do you participate in?
My main extracurricular is singing in an a cappella group on campus called the Wesleyan Spirits (follow our Instagram: @wesleyanspirits). I was already interested in continuing a cappella in college but I found out about this group in particular through a teammate who was in it. I also write music on my guitar in my free time but I joined the Spirits because collaboration, for me, is what makes music most enjoyable.
What’s your go-to warmup song?
Recently for pre-race, I’ve stopped listening to music. I’ve preferred to be present with my teammates and get a feel of the competitive atmosphere.
What is something you enjoy doing that you never get tired of?
Playing with my dog! I have a Golden Retriever at home and, if given the chance, I’ll drop whatever I’m doing to chase him around the house.
What has been your favorite class outside of your major?
My favorite class outside of my major would have to be Quantum Mechanics. Although I no longer pursue physics as a career path, I still find the subject super interesting, and taking it with a friend meant we could really dive deep into the meaning behind what we were learning.
What internships/research projects have you participated in?
I shadowed a cardiologist (an alumnus from Bates) over the summer and the experience changed my career interests. He walked me through his day-to-day and the real difference he made. I enjoyed the technical aspects of his work but I also became invested in the patients' health over the months I shadowed there. I realized how fulfilling practicing medicine could be which was enough for me to switch majors.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
I’ve learned sleep is critical to not only my success but my feeling of success. Once I noticed more sleep directly correlated to the end of my 3-year injury, I started seeing the connections in every facet of life. Soon after followed my most successful running and academic semester with a few good a cappella concerts thrown into the mix. This caused such a massive shift in my life I couldn’t pick anything else.
What is your favorite place on your campus?
My favorite place is probably the Physics Lounge in Exely. The cross country team goes there after dinner to hang out or get some work done. I also love to go there because even though I moved away from physics it is still interesting to see what is going on in some of the classes.
What is something interesting about you that others might not know?
I have a friend from every continent (excluding Antarctica of course).
What is something you enjoy doing when not in class or competing in your sport?
I brought my guitar on campus so I enjoy writing my own songs. Although I’ve never produced an album it's a little goal I’d love to see come into fruition at some point in my college career.
