I liked that it was a school where I could ride horses, but also where I could balance that with school and college life. I also like that it was a smaller school where you can really experience everything that W&L and Lexington has to offer.
What is your favorite W&L memory?
Oh wow, too many to name. I’ve met so many incredible people at W&L and had such great experiences.
What role did your athletic experience play in your overall college experience?
Having grown up competing and traveling for the sport, I appreciate that at W&L I had a better balance between riding, school and all that college has to offer. I appreciate that the team gave me the opportunity to meet people I might not otherwise have met and to be a part of varsity athletics at the collegiate level. When everything is so new in college, it was comforting to be part of a team where we all shared a common bond and purpose.
How did competing as a student athlete prepare you for life after college?
The Student-Athlete program really taught me a lot about work-life balance. I wanted to be successful at horseback riding, school and enjoy college life and that required some learning and adjustment. Also in the equestrian team, the roster consisted of people competing at different levels, so it was really an atmosphere of supporting and helping each other to achieve this common goal.
Which people from your time with Washington and Lee had the biggest impact/influence on you? Why?
Amy Reistrup, my senior year as a coach, had a huge impact on my life. She supported me horseback riding, but when I said I wanted to move to New York City after college, she stood right behind me with encouragement. I also keep in touch with many teammates and while we may not see each other often, I feel like they are always so supportive and I’m lucky to have them as friends. There are also many professors including Dr. Woodzicka, who I did a summer internship with, made the academic experience special.
How has the experience of women competing in athletics changed since you first set foot on the W&L campus (at W&L or generally)?
In fact, equestrian is the only Olympic sport where men and women compete equally and in my experience W&L has been a supportive atmosphere for women competing in athletics and many of our women’s teams have been very successful. However, in the broader landscape of women playing sports, we are all aware of the inequality and pay gap women face. It’s great that these issues are being addressed and that women athletes are being given more attention to their success, but there is still work to be done on that front.
Tell us a little bit about how life is for you now? What are your plans professionally and privately?
Actually, I work professionally in equestrian sport, but now more on the operational and event side than in competition. I feel fortunate to continue working with the sport and with something I am passionate about and have had the privilege of traveling and working at some amazing events including the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and the Lima Pan American Games in 2019. I am based in Washington, DC although I travel and drive quite a bit when I can!
What’s your proudest achievement since leaving Washington and Lee?
To be able to achieve what I have on the events side of equestrian sport and work at the Tokyo Olympics last year.
Do you stay connected with W&L and if so, how?
Because I travel so much, I haven’t been able to attend as many W&L events as I would like. Apart from that, I keep in touch through friends and other alumni.
What advice would you give to students who are just beginning their W&L track and field experience?
For many, college is really the last time they have time to compete in the sport on a team at this level. Enjoy it, enjoy being part of the team but also all the experience that life as a collegiate athlete brings. Remember it’s not all and find a balance, enjoy college life and pay attention to class too. And remember, there are so many jobs in esports – even if you’re not a top athlete playing professionally, there are still so many ways to keep working in esports.
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