Q: When and why did you first become interested in gymnastics?
A: I started gymnastics when I was three years old. My mom chose to put me in gymnastics because I was very active as a toddler.
Q: Do you have any good/funny memories from when you first started taking gymnastics classes?
A: When I was a toddler, I didn’t like to wait for my turn in the gym. I was crying and pushing every other kid out of the way, in order to do forward rolls by myself.
Q: When did you decide you wanted to compete? And, when did you want to compete at a high level? What about competition appeals to you?
A: I decided I wanted to compete at a high level when I was eight years old, which is why I chose to join IGI and train with Todd Gardiner. I love the intense feeling of competition and performing in front of a large crowd.
Q: What is your training regimen? Was that a big change when you made the switch to competitive gymnastics?
A: I currently train five hours a day.
Q: What is your favorite event?
A: Vault
Q: What is your favorite skill?
A: Front Aerial
Q: What music do you use for your floor routine?
A: Modern Tango
Q: Who is your favorite gymnast or who is your “idol”?
A: Nastia Liukin
Q: How have you grown as a gymnast during your career, both skill wise and mentally?
A: I am stronger and more determined to learn from my failures and turn them into successes. Overall, I think gymnastics has made me a better person.
Q: How has gymnastics helped you as a person?
A: It gave me self- confidence and instilled discipline in my life.
Q: If you had to select one life-lesson that gymnastics has taught you, what would it be?
A: Never give up, even if there are obstacles and challenges.
Q: What are your biggest accomplishments or best memories in your career?
A: I qualified for elite, competed at the Secret Classic and I was the Junior Olympic National floor champion and all-around silver medalist. Additionally, I qualified for the Nastia Liukin Cup and earned a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma where I will have opportunity compete for the Sooners.
Q: Do you want to compete in collegiate gymnastics?
A: I’m going to the University of Oklahoma
Q: What are your favorite subjects, etc.?
A: Science
Q: If you plan to go to college, do you know what you want to study there?
A: I plan to study Health and Exercise Science.
Q: When you’re not in the gym, how do you enjoy spending your time? Do you have any hobbies or favorite activities? Charities?
A: I like to swim.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Stuffed Peppers
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: Unbroken
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: Life of Pi
Q: What is your favorite music group?
A: Shakira and Maroon 5
Q: Are any of your family members current or former athletes? Which sports?
A: Both my parents were runners in college. Currently, my brother is an 800-meter runner at Drake University.
Q: Do you have any competition rituals? Lucky charms?
A: I pray.
Q: What’s on your IPod right now? What type of music do enjoy listening to? How about before a meet when you’re trying to get focused and pumped up?
A: I listen to many different types of music. Some of my favorites are Adam Levine, Justin Bieber, and the Weekend.
Q: If you had to pick 3 words to describe yourself as a gymnast, what are they?
A: Elegant, Powerful and Skillful