Stevenson freshman Kathryn Merrick has already experienced the highs and lows of collegiate athletics. She is a member of the women’s soccer team, playing in half the games for the Mustangs, who tied for second place in the CAC. This spring, she suffered a season-ending injury during the women’s lacrosse preseason and has been sidelined as the nationally-ranked Mustangs battle for playoff position in one of the most competitive seasons in conference history. INTRODUCING … Stevenson two-sport athlete Kathryn Merrick.
Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play? I started playing lacrosse for a rec team when I was 10, just to try something different. I quickly fell in love with the game. The following year, I decided to try out for a local travel team. Although I wasn’t sure if I wanted the time commitment of a club team, I finally convinced myself to try out for NEMS. I later realized that I made the right decision. All of the hard work and determination paid off by allowing me to play four years for my varsity team at Bel Air High School, and now for Stevenson University.
What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline? The major I am studying is Biology and I plan to attend graduate school to earn a doctorate degree in Physical Therapy. With playing a fall sport in addition to the rigor of my major, it has helped me to understand to never procrastinate and that time management is a must. Being proactive and “ahead of the game” is crucial for success in both school and life.
What is your favorite spot on campus? With the stadium being a brand new addition at Stevenson and spending extended hours at Mustang Stadium, it has quickly grown to be one of my favorite spots on campus. It is a great place to spend time, whether it is at practice or sitting with friends and supporting the other teams at Stevenson.
Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit? One of my favorite places to visit and spend time at is Hazleton, Pa., where all of my extended family lives. I come from a large family that is very close and important to me. I enjoy going up there during the holidays to take part in all of the fun, family traditions.
Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)? Aside from lacrosse, I am also currently playing soccer for Stevenson. As a part of the soccer team, we were involved with the Baltimore Child Abuse Center and spent time volunteering and raising money for the organization. I also am currently joining the MAP club and participate in SoLVE sessions through the School of the Sciences each week.
What is the most important societal issue facing college students? The most important issue is the effect of the poor economy and the escalating cost of college tuition that creates a large expense upon graduation. Since finding a job after graduation is becoming more difficult, students are strapped with a significant amount of debt before entering their professional careers.
Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life? Two of the most influential people in my life, aside from my family, would be my high school lacrosse coach, Shannon Esposito and my high school soccer coach Josh Clemmer. Both have been great role models and have always given me the encouragement to do the right thing on and off the field. They were instrumental in motivating me through the tough times throughout my high school career.
What is your favorite form of entertainment? My favorite form of entertainment includes attending plays and musicals. I love to travel to New York every year with my mom to watch a new performance. I really enjoy theatre productions because I am amazed by the talent of the performers and the time they must put in to be successful. Theatre is something that I could never do and I respect those who can and who have the courage to perform in front of so many.
If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be? Read, Read, Read!!! Reading is one of my favorite pastimes. It develops your mind and it develops your imagination. It is the key to success to function in today’s society.
Outside of the Capital Athletic Conference, who or what is your favorite sports person or team? Penn State football is my favorite sports team and Megan Rapinoe from the USA women’s soccer team is my favorite athlete. My dad attended Penn State and I have grown up watching their football team play every week. Megan Rapinoe has grown to be my favorite athlete and continues to be my inspiration. She exemplifies how hard work and determination pay off, and is a kind and determined person that aspiring athletes and children can look up to.
Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with? If I was given the opportunity to have dinner with three people, I would have to choose Joe Paterno, Jack Johnson, and Duff Goldman. I would first select JoePa because he is a legendary coach and one of the most genuine and happy man who cared as much for his players as he did his family. He gave everything to the team and asked for nothing in return. I would also select Jack Johnson to have dinner with because he is my favorite musical artist and his popularity spans the globe. I would lastly select Duff Goldman because I love to bake and his creative twist on cakes is amazing and inspiring.
