Nola Palestrant '25 Recruiting Profile

As a young child, my parents enrolled me in a swim team, and I immediately fell in love with the water. I started playing water polo my freshman year of high school, and the game quickly grew into my passion. I was sucked into the exhilaration, the dynamics, and the rewards the same way I was with swimming all those years ago. Since then, I have continuously worked to improve and tune my abilities, both in practice and out. I love pushing my limits, striving to become the best player I can be, and watching as my hard work becomes evident. Through the years, the unpredictable nature of water polo has taught me grit and perseverance, as well as the worth of intense effort, dedication, and dreams. I am extremely driven, resolute, and I exceed what is asked of me. The qualities I have adopted from this sport — those of tenacity, teamwork, commitment, and diligence — have not only made me a better player, but have transferred to benefit my academic and social life.

In the pool and in the classroom, I maintain strong expectations, and perform to my highest ability. I love learning and I want to pursue a degree in mathematics or science. As a Junior, I am taking a STEM heavy course load, and I’m excited to gain new knowledge about those topics. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, camping, backpacking, and simply spending time in nature, as well as star-gazing, reading, and being with friends and family. My passion and love for water polo is immense, and I want to play competitively for as long as I am able. I am a strong student and athlete, with the ability and work ethic to consistently improve. I’m looking for a college program that will challenge and encourage me in both areas.