Why did you choose Drew University?
I chose drew university because it gave me the opportunity to be a two sport athlete while getting a great education. The teacher-to-student ratio is so important and having that one-on-one feeling really makes a difference. They teachers know your name and you are not just a number or statistic.
Why did you choose your major and what is your favorite course?
I have been coaching swimming for about 6 years, went through and completed Girl Scouts, and have always enjoyed working with kids. It's that rewarding feeling of the kids performing something that I taught them. Therefore I am a Psychology and Elementary Education double major with a minor is Special Education. I don't have a favorite course because they all hold their own, unique value.
What is your most memorable moment as a Ranger?
My most memorable moment as a Ranger would definitely have to be during the spring of my freshman year during softball. We were losing to Muhlenburg and I somehow managed to hit a 3 run home run. That ended up being enough for us to win the game.
How has being an athlete helped you as a student and in the classroom?
Being an athlete makes you have really good time management skills. Â By playing 2 sports I don't have the time to slack and procrastinate on my assignments. The coaches also want us to succeed not only on the field but also in the classroom, so they make sure everything is on track academically.Â
What is the most difficult part of your sport?
The most difficult part of swimming is getting back in "swimming" shape and the most difficult part of softball is squatting behind the plate for 2 games in a row.
Why do you wear your jersey number?
I have always worn number 17 because it is my lucky number but when I came to drew someone already had that number so I had to change. I chose 15 because it will be my graduation year at Drew.
What advice do you have for a prospective Drew University student-athlete?
The advice I would give to prospective students is letting them know the assurance of gaining friends you will keep for a long time. The teammates and friends I have made are irreplaceable. They will help you survive and get through anything.
Why is community service important to your role as a student-athlete at Drew?
I have always done community service. Whether is was going through Girl Scouts all the way through the gold award, teaching swim lessons, or just helping out in anyway community service makes you a better person. Doing something great for someone is a feeling like nothing else.
Name one obstacle or form of adversity you have had to overcome...
An obstacle I had to overcome would be the politics of parents, coaches, and faculty I had to deal with during my time before I came to Drew and before I found a travel team in-which no one believed they were a star, but we all sure shined like one especially winning nationals. Being told things such as that I wasn't good enough to join a team and to go somewhere else or where favoritism took precedent over ability, were definitely things that became difficult for me to try to get past. Being able to swim in every meet or play behind the plate of every softball game is something I'm proud to show off.
Rapid Fire:
Color? BlueÂ
Food? PastaÂ
Restaurant? 54 Main
Movie? 21 jump street
TV Show? Bar Rescue
Musical Artist? Imagine DragonsÂ
Athlete? Brett Gardener
Pro Team? NY Giants and NY Yankees
Hobbies? Hiking, FriendsÂ
Most Prized Possession? My dogs
Biggest Fear? Clowns!
