Why did you decide to come to Carleton?
Carleton offered me the balance between academics and swimming that I was looking for. Both Andy and Brooke emphasized that academics come first, but did not lessen the importance of commitment to swimming. Carleton seemed full of people interested in a broad range of topics and dedicated to school, but without competing with each other.
What have been some of the differences between college and high school sports?
The season at Carleton is about 19 weeks while the high school season is only 9, which allows for better training. The season is long enough to begin with technique work, then more intense training and a full taper. Carleton also has a much greater sense of team than high school.
What are you most looking forward to next season?
I can’t wait for MIACs next season! I had never been at a meet before where so many people lost their voices from cheering so much. The energy level is incredibly high and watching everybody drop time and support one another encourages me to swim even faster.
What do you enjoy most about your sport?
At Carleton, I enjoy how we make swimming into a team sport. Swimming by itself is fairly individual, but at Carleton we all support each other through every practice and meet. The team carries each other through the season. Before the taper meet, the women’s team goes through each others goals so everyone is aware and can cheer even louder.
What are some of your team’s traditions?
One of the traditions we have is the fist pump at the taper meet. At the end of every race, the immediate reaction is to put your fist in the air. Before even looking at the time on the board, each swimmer fist pumps and all those cheering on the side join in. This also happens whenever Carleton swimmers make it on the podium.
What is your favorite thing about Carleton?
My favorite thing at Carleton is the transition between the seriousness of the academics and the fun of Carleton life. Everyone here works hard but we tend not to take ourselves too seriously. Carleton students have lots of crazy traditions, such as the silent dance party.
