Where did you continue your running career after high school?
University of Arkansas
What was the biggest adjustment you had to make to compete at the college level?
Focusing on my own goals and accomplishment, rather than comparing my own journey to the success of my teammates.
Is there anything you can tell high school athletes to better prepare them for the college experience?
Enjoy the journey, rather than just making it to the destination. Get to know your teammates like your brothers and sisters, because they are now your family/friends/coworkers and your own determination plus theirs will keep you focused on the goal. Take a deep breath, and trust your training...I've learned that consistency and staying healthy are the most important factors of solid training.
What memories from competing in high school stand out the most?
Definitely winning state sophomore year, making footlocker junior and senior year, and winning the 4x8 junior year, and 2 mile senior year.
What do you miss most about running in high school?
Some of my teammates from high school were some of my best friends, and I miss them as well my high school coach and mentor, Coach Banta who made me physically as well as mentally stronger. I also miss the bond I formed with some of the sprinters in track, and just how much fun we had at practice, at meets, and celebrating after big wins.
What piece of coaching or advice that someone gave you has been the biggest help?
I was blessed to have had the chance to work in Colorado this summer with the Rocky Mountain Cross Country Camp, and Coach Trent Sanderson gave me some of the best advice: Be happy you're YOU. Don't be complaining and wishing you were someone else, but recognize your strenghts and weaknesses and work on your weaknesses to have the complete package and be a stronger runner.
Also, quit comparing yourself to others, and concentrate on your own goals because that is what will ultimately make you a champion. Make it about YOU...hence the saying, "Imma do me".
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