Looking back at your freshman year self, what is the biggest difference in your mindset compared to now as a senior headed to UMass?
I did not have many friends on the team as a freshman, but the outdoor season allowed me to branch out and meet new people, and that’s where I really blossomed and fell in love with the sport. My biggest difference in mindset from freshman year to now is definitely my determination. Once I realized there were people out there who were the same age, competed in track, and shared the same goals as me, my perspective changed and allowed me to push the limits every day.
What kept you motivated to show up and work hard every single day throughout all four years?
The end goal of graduating high school and committing to a Division 1 university pushed me to show up and show out every single day.
What is the one race or moment from your high school career that you’ll never forget?
One moment from my track career I’ll never forget is when I placed 3rd at the Virginia State Championships in the 300-meter hurdles. It wasn’t a personal best, but I ran a low 45 [seconds], which is still really good!
Out of all the programs out there, what was it about the University of Massachusetts that made you realize it was the right fit for you?
The program at the University of Massachusetts is what made me realize it was the perfect fit for me. The coaches, family, and culture at UMass really worked for me. It truly felt like home on campus, and that was the biggest factor in determining the college I wanted to attend.
College track is a step up in intensity. What part of the UMass training program are you most excited (or nervous!) to dive into?
I’m really excited to start the 400-meter hurdles, an event that’s not included in high school meets. I’ve run the 400-meter hurdles three times, and I love it more every single time I compete in it.
Amherst is a classic college town. Aside from the track, what are you most looking forward to experiencing as a student at UMass?
I’m most looking forward to driving around town in Amherst. When I toured the area with my dad, I discovered it was an extremely historical place with stunning architecture, which I was really looking for in the college I chose. What I especially liked about UMass is that they protect their historical architecture and build off of it, rather than remodeling and modernizing the campus. Even off campus, there was a cute little town, only a 5-minute walk away, that I’m so excited to explore. Another perk to UMass that I’m looking forward to is visiting one of my good friends who attends college in Boston.
Behind every athlete is a support system. Who are the people who kept you grounded when the pressure was at its highest?
My friends and family were my biggest support system by far, who kept me grounded. To be more specific, Gabe (junior Gabriel Lugo) was definitely my biggest support system throughout my track career. He kept me going and pushed me to persevere, reminding me of everything that I was working hard for. I’m really grateful to have him.
What do you hope the younger athletes on the team learned from watching you compete and lead over the last four years?
I really hope the younger athletes witnessed my strive and motivation for track itself, and I hope that same attitude reflects on them. I truly feel Salem has a great group of athletes who have so much potential to be great with the right mindset.
