Olivia Paige Rotondo

Ever since I started rowing in February of my 8th grade year, I realized that I would never be able to take a break. I use rowing as my escape from reality. I walk into the boathouse and forget about the all my stress or hours of homework I will have after practice. Rowing in college would be such a privilege to me because it allows my to focus on something that I love to do, and not stress out about other things in life.

My freshman year there was only 4 novices on my team. My coach came to me and said that I was in charge of recruiting freshman girls for an 8. I annoyed all my soccer friends that use the spring for a "break." I pressured them into coming to a practice, and most of them are still rowing today. I took over the role of teaching them everything they needed to know, and made them feel welcomed. Not only am I a leader at crew, but I am the vice president in the SADD club, students against destructive decisions.

Being an athlete comes with its many perks and downfalls. With running 3 miles everyday and rowing 9-12 miles daily, you have to create healthy habits that allow you to stay safe and healthy. I have learned to stay to my strict schedule, allowing myself to come home from practice, eat dinner, shower, complete homework, and still try to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Both sleep and good nutrients have become a very important aspect of my life.