Student-Athlete Spotlight: Stephanie Cushman

Sport: Swimming & Diving
Year: Senior (C'20)
Events: Backstroke, Individual Medley
Hometown/High School: Brick, N.J./Donovan Catholic
Majors: Biology, Spanish

Why did you choose Drew University?
I chose Drew University because the small class sizes allow for students and professors to know each other personally, and this is part of what makes the learning experience so great. I was also impressed with the intensity of the training and dedication that goes toward the sports programs here, even though the main emphasis is on being successful in the classroom. 

Why did you choose your majors?
I chose biology because I know that many of the courses will keep me on track so I can apply to doctor of physical therapy programs in the future, and I chose Spanish as a second major because the benefits of being bilingual in this society are endless. 

What is your most memorable moment as a Ranger?
My most memorable moment as a Ranger was winning the 200 backstroke for the first time at the Landmark Conference Champs my freshman year. It made everything feel like it was worth it, and it definitely made me want to go back for more. 

How has being an athlete helped you as a student and in the classroom?
Being an athlete has helped me to become a very structured person when it comes to school. It has helped me realize that there are no excuses for slacking off, and that if you manage your time well, you can excel in the classroom and in the pool. 

What is the most difficult part of your sport?
The most difficult part of swimming is being patient. Sometimes you do not see the results you want to see right away, and this discourages people. Sometimes you have to be ok with failing in our sport before you are successful.  

What advice do you have for a prospective Drew University student-athlete?
My advice to a prospective Drew University student-athlete is to not only strive for individual success, but to strive to be successful as a team. It is important to hold yourself and your teammates accountable if you want to make a mark in the conference. 

Why is community service important to your role as a student-athlete at Drew?
Community service is important because it teaches you a lot about yourself. When you do good for others, not because you feel obligated to, but because you want to, you bring out the best in yourself and have a memorable impact on others. 

Name one obstacle or form of adversity you have had to overcome...
I have had to overcome failure several times. Not every race is going to be perfect, but it makes you appreciate the perfect ones even more. You can't let failure stop you, but you also can't let one success satisfy you. You have to work even harder to succeed again. 

Rapid Fire:
Color: Mint green 
Food: Pizza 
Restaurant: Pete and Elda's 
Movie: Seven Pounds 
TV Show: MasterChef 
Musical Artist: Coldplay 
Athlete: Aaron Judge 
Pro Team: Yankees 
Hobbies: Running, skiing, listening to music 
Biggest fear: Running late to something 
Most Prized Possession: My journal