Friday, May 19, 2017

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes who are members of their respective institutions' Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). In addition to providing feedback on the student-athlete experience, conference and institutional SAAC members also offer input on the rules, regulations and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on NCAA member institution campuses. Click here for more information on the function of SAAC at the NCAA level.

Name: Aleisha Shontae Hathaway
Sport: Basketball
School: Western Washington University
Year: Senior
Major: Kinesiology – Pre-Healthcare Professions Specialization
Hometown: Spokane, Wash.

Why Did You Choose To Attend WWU? I chose Western not only for the beautiful location, but because of the level of excellence in the classroom and the sports programs.

What Is Your Favorite Class You Have Taken In College And Why? Human anatomy and physiology. The professor was so passionate about the subject and the material was challenging, yet so fun to learn about!

Years Involved In SAAC: Two.

The Reason I Chose To Get Involved In SAAC: I wanted to be involved with what was happening in our conference and make sure that my team had a voice. Also, I feel it's very important to use our voices as student-athletes and representatives of our school to try to make a difference for those in need.

What Is The Most Important Thing You've Learned From Balancing The Demands Of Athletics And Academics? The most important thing that I have learned is the power of time management and goal setting. The life of an athlete can be overwhelming at times, but knowing how to plan your time and set daily or weekly goals for yourself really helps to keep you grounded.

What Does It Mean To Be A Division II Student-Athlete? It means having the opportunity to continue in the sport that you love while pursuing a degree for your future. Emphasis is put into the classroom first, but you still get to represent your school as an athlete and be a part of a highly competitive team. It's the best of both worlds.

Future Goals After School: To become a physician assistant and eventually work in a not-for-profit family clinic.

Biggest Obstacle Overcame During Collegiate Career: I've been plagued with a lot of injuries during my collegiate career, so being patient with myself coming back from them has been my most challenging obstacle.

Best Advice I’d Give To An Incoming Freshman: Break your procrastination habit, deadlines come faster than you think. Don't rely on memory, write everything down. And take naps when you can get them!

Favorite Sports Team: Portland Trail Blazers

Favorite Athlete: Russell Westbrook

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: When my team made it to the Final Four in San Antonio, Texas!

One Thing That People Don't Know About Me Is: Someday, I would love to live in Switzerland.