After transitioning from soccer to XC my sophomore year, I found a new passion for running. I had a successful first season and made it to state with our team. I learned a lot about strategy and pacing that first year. I loved running so much that I decided to join the track team in the Spring rather than pursue another season of soccer, and I focused on long distance. I was an alternate for the Drake Relays that season. The summer before junior year I ran two open 5k races. I placed first for all women/all divisions in July (Urbandale, Iowa) and first in my division in September (South Bend, Indiana.) I was chosen to be a captain my junior year for XC. This was the first time a junior had been selected at my school. Unfortunately, my ambition contributed to a stress fracture and cut my junior season short. I have healed and am working towards a successful Junior track season currently. I am a serious student and a strong academic institution is a priority for me. I hope I can enjoy running this much long after college, but also want to make important contributions to society through a rewarding career someday.