Why did you choose to attend Williams?
Both of my high school coaches and my favorite teacher were Williams alumni, which gave me a strong initial incentive to apply. During my visit, the team’s warm welcome and the beautiful Berkshire views during our run convinced me. I value the remote setting of Williamstown which fosters a close-knit campus environment that encourages outdoor activities - we even have a day in the fall when classes are canceled (Mountain Day) and students hike and explore the Berkshires while student groups perform. In addition, I appreciate the liberal arts curriculum that allows students to explore a wide range of disciplines, allowing for a well-rounded student body with diverse interests.
Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
I value the balance that Division III provides, allowing athletes to excel in their sport while also prioritizing academics and other important aspects of student life. During my time at Williams, I have studied abroad and engaged in various club activities and student jobs, along with athletics, all of which have been integral to my overall experience.
What is the best thing about being part of the NESCAC?
Each school in the NESCAC has its own tight-knit community, but the NESCAC as a whole is also remarkably close. Over my four years at Williams, I've truly enjoyed getting to know competitors from other schools and forming connections within this broader network.
What extracurricular activities or service activities do you participate in?
I’ve been a tutor at the Williamstown Elementary School since the spring of my freshman year where I help fifth and sixth-grade students with lessons in math, history, and science. I’ve appreciated this opportunity offered by the Williams Center for Learning in Action to become a more active member of the greater Williamstown community. I’m also a member of Purple Mountain Partners, a student-run value investing club, where I’ve enjoyed researching & pitching stocks with a group of peers. I’ve also taught snowshoeing lessons to peers during Winter Study at Williams which has been a great way to explore even more trails in the area.
Looking back on your college years, what are you most proud of?
In athletics, I’m most proud of overcoming the setback of missing my freshman cross country season due to a serious injury. Over the past few years, I’ve reignited my passion for the sport and recently stepped into a captain role on the team, aiming to inspire others in the process.
What’s your go-to warmup song?
I’m a huge country fan so I have to go with Down Under Country Mix on Soundcloud (1st or 4th volume).
What is something you enjoy doing that you never get tired of?
I enjoy taking walks, whether it's with a friend around campus, exploring a new trail in the Berkshires, or hiking with my dog.
What has been your favorite class outside of your major?
I’ve enjoyed taking "The Tropics: Biology and Social Issues," an environmental science class that explores the scientific foundations of social issues and the policy responses to them. I was especially intrigued by the study of human population biology and the impact of diseases such as malaria, AIDS, and COVID-19.
Have you studied abroad during your collegiate experience?
During the spring of 2024, I studied abroad in Barcelona, Spain. I enjoyed the opportunity to develop my Spanish speaking skills and traveled to the Andalucia, Valencia, Madrid, and Cataluña regions within Spain.
What internships/research projects have you participated in?
After my sophomore year, I interned at Lincoln Peak Capital, and asset management private equity firm which I was connected to through the Williams alumni network. This past summer, I interned at Summit Partners in the healthcare growth equity group which was a great opportunity to combine my interests in both economics and neuroscience. In particular, I enjoyed working on mergers & acquisitions strategy for portfolio companies.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
Being a student-athlete, especially as a cross country runner, has instilled a sense of grit in me. Cross country demands perseverance; every race presents its own set of challenges, from hills to mud to uneven surfaces. However, our diverse training on various terrains and in different weather conditions equips us to handle these obstacles. Coach Dusty Lopez consistently reminds us to keep the bigger picture in mind—maintaining balance and not letting the highs get too high or the lows too low—which is a valuable life lesson.
What is your favorite place on your campus?
I love to work and hang out at Goodrich Coffee Bar, the student-run coffee shop on the Williams campus. They have the best matcha and seasonal coffee/bagel menus!
