How did you first start swimming, and what made you stick with it through high school?

I first got into swimming when my mom would bring me to swim at YMCA when I was 3. I stuck with swimming because I’ve been doing it for so many years and I enjoyed it.

What has been your favorite memory competing for Carmel (or Carmel Swim Club/CHS) so far?

My favorite memory competing for CHS was swimming at high school State last year.

What made you commit to Columbia?

I committed to Columbia because of their supportive coaches and excellent economics program. 

How do you balance being a student and a swimmer in your senior year of high school?

Being on TCP or senior schedule and doing homework ahead of time has allowed me to do a lot more and prepare better for classes.

What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in swimming, and how have you overcome them?

I think my biggest challenge was when I broke through a growth plate in my right ankle. I overcame this challenge by working hard in physical therapy and continuing to go to practice and stretch it after I recovered.

How do you prepare mentally and physically before a big race? Do you have any pre-race routines/superstitions?

I prepare mentally by visualizing what my race would look like and listening to music. I prepare physically by doing well during meet warm up and warm ups before I swim.

What are your personal goals for college swimming? Do you have hopes to compete at any national/international competitions?

I want to continue to drop time in college and to have the same passion for swimming I do now. I want to compete at Canadian trials for nationals or the Olympics.

What advice would you give younger swimmers at CHS?

My advice would be to find enjoyment in swimming. If you go to practice without enjoyment, then you most likely won’t get better.

How do you stay motivated and maintain discipline when school, training, and college things all demand time?

I stay motivated and disciplined because my life is basically a routine. I’ve done the same lifestyle for so long that it’s the norm. Also just wanting to improve helps, too.

What does being part of such a successful swim program at CHS mean to you?

Being at Carmel means a lot. I’ve met a lot of good friends through swimming at Carmel. Aside from the success and history Carmel has made, Carmel swimming has allowed me to grow as a person and I’m grateful for that.