Student-Athlete Spotlight: Peter Mari
Sport: Men's Swimming & Diving
Year: Junior (C'17)
Event: Free/Breast
Hometown/High School: Washington Twp. NJ/Westwood Regional
Major: Fine Arts
Minor: Film, Media, and Communications Why did you choose Drew University?I chose Drew because of small classes, the campus, location (Since I'm not far from home) and I also knew I was going to do well here and it was the right fit for me. Drew had everything I wanted in a school.
Why did you choose your major and what is your favorite course?I chose Studio Art as my major simply because I like art and how much it fascinates me. It's a lot more interesting to work on something hands on than writing with a pen and paper everyday. My favorite course in my major would have to be Drawing.
What is your most memorable moment as a Ranger?My most memorable moment as a Ranger is definitely going to Championships at the end of the season. Specifically, last year, when I was at Champs, I touched the wall after the 200 Breastroke prelims and saw that I did a new best time and I found out that I was in the B Final. That night, during the final race, I remember my team screaming for me as I tried to move through the water as fast as possible. I ended up dropping a second from prelims so that was also a new best time. All the long hours in the pool, all the lifts that we do; It all pays off. Hard work truly pays off.
How has being an athlete helped you as a student and in the classroom?It is definitely not easy being a student athlete. Being a student athlete has helped me manage my time. Since I'm in the classroom most of the day, I work around my practice schedule to get my work done. That way, I have more free time.
What is the most difficult part of your sport?The most difficult part of swimming has to be practicing seven to eight times a week plus dry-lands, lifting and on top of all of that, having a swim meet at the end of the week. Once the season gets into full swing, everyday is a grind.
What advice do you have for a prospective Drew University student-athlete?My advice would have to be time management. If you do not know how to manage your time then you will have trouble being a student athlete. School comes first.
Why is community service important to your role as a student-athlete at Drew?Community-Service is important because you help other people out during your free time whether it is volunteering your time to work a basketball/soccer game etc. Your not only helping other athletes with their sport but you are also supporting Drew Athletics.
Name one obstacle or form of adversity you have had to overcome...When I came on the swim team freshman year, at the time, I remember the first practice was one of the hardest practices I have ever done. I never swam at such a high intensity, it was a struggle. I instantly had second thoughts about swimming in college. I thought it would be stressful, too difficult and too much for me. I have had the support of my family, friends and teammates pushing me and saying that I can do it. Ever since then, I knew for a fact that it's all in your head. I eventually got adjusted to my coach's training regimen and stress level/intensity of his practices.
Rapid Fire:Color: Blue
Food: Chicken
Restaurant: Mr. Bruno's Pizzeria
Movie: The Godfather
TV Show: Family Guy
Musical Artist: Green Day
Athlete: Michael Phelps
Pro Team: Giants and Yankees
Hobbies: Playing Guitar
Most Prized Possession: My Gibson Acoustic Guitar from 1969.
Biggest Fear: Heights
