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Drew University Athletics

Student Athlete-Spotlight- Laura D'Ornellas

Student-Athlete Spotlight: Laura D'Ornellas

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Sport: Softball
Year: Senior (C'15)
Position: P/OF
Hometown/High School:
Lanoka Harbor, N.J./ Lacey Township
Major: Biology
Minor: Anthropology

 
Why did you choose Drew University?
 Along with an impressive biology department, I fell in love with the close-knit feeling among themstudents. The small school atmosphere allows me to get to know many of the students, and also for my professors to know me on a personal level. 

Why did you choose your major and what is your favorite course?
I chose the biology major because it allowed me to pursue my interest in forensic science, while also being exposed to everything this field of science has to offer. It also allows me to challenge myself academically. My favorite course so far has been microbiology. Although it was extremely challenging, the lab work involved was very interesting and the professors were great!

What is your most memorable moment as a Ranger?
My most memorable moment as a Ranger was pitching a win my sophomore year against 20th ranked Moravian for the first time since entering the Landmark Conference in 2008. 

How has being an athlete helped you as a student and in the classroom?
Being an athlete has helped me academically by forcing me to manage my time as efficiently as possible. Between practice, games, and team events, athletics aid me in finishing all my work in a timely manner.  

What is the most difficult part of your sport?
The most difficult part of my sport is coordinating time with someone to get pitching practice in. At school, I have all of my teammates to work with me but in the off season when I'm home, it is hard to find someone to catch for me. It can get extremely frustrating relying on someone else to help you get better.  

Why do you wear your jersey number?
I have worn number 8 since I was 11 years old. As a child I was greatly influenced by Olympic great Cat Osterman, who wore the number 8. 

What advice do you have for a prospective Drew University student-athlete?
My advice for a perspective Drew student-athlete would be that this university truly allows you to do it all. Becoming a Drew Ranger provides you with the opportunity to compete at a high level athletically, but also gives you the ability to focus on your school work and other campus activities that enhance your college experience. 

Why is community service important to your role as a student-athlete at Drew?
Particularly as a Civic Scholar as well as a student-athlete, community service is very important to me. Being a student-athlete opens your eyes to how fortunate you are to be a Drew Ranger and experiencing all that this university has to offer. To me, community service is a way to show that you are grateful for the opportunities you have by helping those who are less fortunate or sharing something you are passionate about with others.  

Name one obstacle or form of adversity you have had to overcome...
One form of adversity pitchers constantly have to face is composure in the face of adversity itself. The attitude of the pitcher on the field influences that of the rest of the team. It is important for the pitcher to lead by example, even when things aren't going their way. There are times when you can be throwing a great game, one little thing happens, and you end up losing. It is key for us to stay positive, acknowledge the small successes, and accept the failures, which will make us better in the future. Throughout the years, I have found my attitude and composure to be one of my strongest assets on the mound and that is something I am very proud of.        

Rapid Fire:
Color? Purple
Food? Ice cream
Restaurant? Outback Steakhouse
Movie? 13 Going on 30
TV Show? Bones
Musical Artist? Taylor Swift
Athlete?  Cat Osterman
Pro Team? NY Yankees
Hobbies? Reading, going to the beach
Most Prized Possession? Family
Biggest Fear?  Spiders