Why did you choose to attend Hamilton?
I was really drawn to the open curriculum at Hamilton because it ensured that I could study what I wanted without being hampered by a core curriculum. Hamilton’s small class size and strong writing program were also a big pull for me. I also had a good gut feeling about the girls I met on the team and Coach Baker.
Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I wanted to be more than just an athlete during my college experience. I’ve been able to take on a more rigorous academic workload, have new experiences in the off season, and study abroad.
What is the best thing about being part of the NESCAC?
The best part about being in the NESCAC is getting a small liberal arts experience while also being able to play in a highly competitive league that gets more talented by the year.
You have a blank canvas and could paint your perfect day, what does it look like?
I’d wake up early to take a hike in the Glen with friends, get brunch in New Hartford, play some beach volleyball, lounge around on Minor Field, and watch the sunset.
What is your dream job/career?
I can see myself pursuing a bunch of different paths. I would love to continue creative writing throughout my life and it would be great to write in a professional capacity. I think it would also be interesting to pursue law because I love thinking analytically, making arguments and working with a team.
Looking back on your college years, what are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the ways that I have grown as a student, athlete, and person. It’s satisfying to look back and see the balance I’ve struck between sports and academics, and how I’ve found my way in both.
Is there anything special about your uniform number?
I’ve never really cared about my uniform number so I’ve worn a bunch of numbers over the years. However, if I get the chance, I try to incorporate my mom’s uniform number from her time as a college athlete into my number. She was number 6 and throughout my college career I’ve been #16.
What is something you enjoy doing that you never get tired of?
I will never get tired of hitting. There’s nothing quite like it.
What has been your favorite class outside of your major?
My favorite class that I’ve taken outside of my major is Introduction to Existentialism. I have loved all of the philosophy classes I’ve taken at Hamilton, but I found this class particularly engaging because we got to grapple with conceptions of God, defining the self, and our own
existence. My mind was blown every class.
Who is your favorite professor?
Professor Franklin in the Philosophy Department is one of my favorite professors at Hamilton. He is one of the most engaging, passionate, and intelligent teachers I have ever had and he does
it all with a sense of humor and deep care for his students. His classes are always memorable.
Have you studied abroad during your collegiate experience?
I studied in Bath, England in the spring of my junior year. I studied creative writing and literature at the Advanced Studies in Bath program. It was an amazing and unforgettable semester.
What internships/research projects have you participated in?
Over this past summer, I studied creative writing at the Columbia University School of the Arts. It was an amazing opportunity to explore different styles of writing at the graduate level. I had the chance to be taught by really passionate publishers and writers who gave me a sense of what it’s like to work in their fields.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
It’s honestly hard to just choose just one lesson. Who I am and my perspective on life has been so deeply shaped by volleyball. The greatest lesson I’ve learned from being a college athlete is that adaptability, as an athlete, teammate, and leader is a strength and a skill.
What is your favorite place on your campus?
My favorite place on campus is anywhere that overlooks Minor Field and into the Glen, which is the forest we have on campus. Fortunately, it’s the view from my dorm room this year.
Who has been the most influential person to you during your time in college?
My first creative writing professor, Misha Rai, completely changed the trajectory of my academic life at Hamilton. She showed me how powerful, fun, and impactful writing can be. Throughout the year that I had her as a professor, she urged me to continue writing and see where it takes me and now I’m a Creative Writing concentrator.
What is something you enjoy doing when not in class or competing in your sport?
I love being out in nature with friends. Some of my favorite memories of Hamilton are taking hikes in the Glen with my friends and going swimming in the watering holes.
