As a Big Ten student-athlete, what were some of the life lessons you learned throughout your collegiate career?
"I learned the value of time management, teamwork and always putting your team before yourself. I learned that I always want to represent my school in the positive way that I would want it represented."
Talk about the demands of balancing schoolwork with being a Big Ten student-athlete...
"It takes incredible time management, focus, hard work and self discipline. It was hard because I had so much homework to do all of the time. My schedule was class, practice, dinner, followed by the library until 11 p.m., and then straight to bed, because we had morning practices at 5:45 a.m. Time management is the most important thing a rower could have."
How did competing in the Big Ten help you gain success in the classroom?
"When someone is put under a situation where a lot of pressure to perform is put on them, it helps them in all areas of their life. If they have to excel in one area, they end up excelling in another during their life as well. Competing in the Big Ten helped because I didn't waste time because I couldn't. Every second I had was important. I think it gave me a lot of confidence when competing, especially at this level, since Big Ten rowing is one of the most competitive conferences. I was pretty fortunate to have had the opportunity I had to compete in the Big Ten and against such a talented group of athletes."
Looking back on your collegiate career, what are some of the things you are most proud of?
"Graduating with a degree in biomedical engineering was pretty exciting because that was the initial reason I went to college. Rowing was just a huge bonus that I loved. All of the achievements we had in rowing were great, but the process - the way you get to those achievements - is the part I will remember the most."
What advice would you give to aspiring female student-athletes?
"Set you goals and set them high. Always work toward those goals but remember to have fun along the way."
What does it mean for you to represent Iowa in the Big Ten's 25th Anniversary of Women's Championships?
"Iowa is a great school and I am very proud to represent my program in one of the most prestigious conferences in the country."
