What is the best thing about being part of the NESCAC?
The best part of being in the NESCAC is the competitive but supportive community across all the schools. I have a brother who attends Williams and runs cross country and track, which makes the competition a little more personal and gives us a fun sibling rivalry. It has been really cool to experience a conference rivalry while still being able to cheer each other on.
What extracurricular activities or service activities do you participate in?
I am a part of the Little Lego Club, where we visit a local school each week and mentor kids by helping them build Legos. Last spring, my teammates and I also had the opportunity to volunteer at the Alfond Youth and Community Center on Sundays. We were able to share our love of volleyball with local kids, while also building meaningful relationships with them. I really enjoy these experiences because they allow me to connect with the local community and share things that I am passionate about with others.
Looking back on your college years, what are you most proud of?
I am most proud of how much I have stepped out of my comfort zone. College has pushed me to try new things, meet new people, and put myself in situations that are sometimes uncomfortable. I have learned that these moments are often when I grow the most and they have allowed me to build some really meaningful relationships along the way.
Is there anything special about your uniform number?
I switched to #20 this year, which is a number I have worn for many years. It is also the number my dad wore when he played hockey at Colgate University. Having both of my parents as collegiate athletes has given me two people to look up to throughout my athletic career, and it makes wearing #20 even more special to me.
What’s your go-to warm-up song?
“Let It All Work Out” by Lil Wayne.
If you weren’t playing your sport, what other sport would you want to try?
If I didn’t play volleyball, I would definitely want to play ice hockey. Colby’s sports teams do a great job of supporting one another. Last year we went to a lot of women’s ice hockey games. It was especially fun to watch my roommate play and to cheer her on.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received from a professor or mentor?
The best piece of advice I have received is to take risks and put yourself out there. Failure is a part of life, and I have learned that you cannot grow without being willing to fail sometimes. Putting yourself in uncomfortable situations can be scary but is also where some of the best opportunities come from.
What is the most memorable moment of your career at your school?
The most memorable moment of my career so far was having the opportunity to compete in the NCAA Elite Eight in Illinois last year. Being able to compete in my home state made the experience even more special, as my family members and past coaches came to cheer me on. It was also so special to be a part of a team that was completely bought in and dedicated and to see all of our hard work come to fruition. It was an incredible opportunity, and I am so grateful that I was able to share it with such an amazing group of teammates and coaches.
What is something you enjoy doing when not in class or competing in your sport?
I enjoy exploring Maine with my friends and teammates when I am not in class or competing. We love going to the Hume Center to swim, taking trips to Acadia for hikes, or exploring new restaurants. There is always something new to discover, which is one of my favorite things about being in Maine.
What skill do you have that has nothing to do with your sport?
I am good at baking sweet treats. Ever since I was little, my grandma and I would bake everything from cookies to breads to cakes. That is where my love for baking started, and I still love to bake whenever I have the time.
