Ingrid McNeely '16 Recruiting Profile

I am a dedicated and passionate friend and leader at my high school, the Convent of the Visitation School, in Mendota Heights, MN.  I strive to lead with kindness and encouragement, while continuing to maintain a competitive atmosphere among my fellow team members.

There are few things I take more pride in than the honor of leading the Visitation Alpine Ski Team as a Junior Captain this season, the 2014-2015 year. Prior to my position as captain, I was voted by my teammates the Most Dedicated member of the Alpine team. On a lighter note, I also carry the title of "Best Pep-Talks", an award in which I take great pride! One of my best qualities is that I truly work to put my fellow team members before myself; I believe that there is no way to be a better captain and team member than by leading with example -- creating an environment that fosters friendship, personal goal achievement and team success. 

Rowing is a sport that I became involved with following the end of the Alpine season in March of 2014.  While I have only been competitive in the sport for a short time, my intense love for rowing and the ideals that are fostered by the rowing community grew very quickly and it became clear that belonging on a Crew team was something that I strived to continue into college and beyond. 

My adventurous personality has grown over time as I have spent 4-5 weeks every summer since I was 12 on wilderness backpacking and canoeing trips through Camp Widjiwagan.  I have traveled the Canadian Quetico by canoe, and the Wind River and Rocky Mountain Ranges in Montana and Wyoming carrying an 80 pound pack.   It is a highlight of my year as I love the teamwork, wilderness and excitement that it brings.

This past summer I was accepted into a science program in Costa Rica with the Seeds of Change Grant Program, where we researched leaf cutter ants; it was a fantastic experience and I learned a great deal about scientific research, rain forests and collaborative work.

I hope to find a school with not only a competitive rowing team, but great academics and, hopefully, access to outdoor activities where I can share adventures with good friends.  

Thank you for your consideration and time!