1. What initially inspired you to pursue your profession? Was there a pivotal moment or person who influenced your career path?
I was always drawn to movement, to pushing my body and mind beyond what seemed possible. But I think the real turning point came in high school when I cleared a personal record that no one—not even I—thought I was capable of. That jump was more than physical; it was emotional, even spiritual. From that moment, I knew this wasn’t just a hobby—it was a calling. And the people around me, especially my coaches, helped me see that I had the potential to chase it seriously.
2. Looking back at your early career, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did they shape your approach to your work?
Like many athletes, I battled doubt—both external and internal. High jump is such a technical and mental event; one bad meet can spiral into self-questioning. Early in my career, I had to learn how to separate results from self-worth. That mindset—of learning through failure and treating setbacks as feedback—shaped how I approach everything now, including my post-athletic career.
3. Did you have any mentors or role models early on? How did they guide or inspire you?
Absolutely. My high school coach was foundational—she didn’t just train us physically; she believed in mental strength, discipline, and kindness. Later, as I got into the elite track and field world, I was inspired by athletes like Jackie Joyner-Kersee—not just for her incredible athleticism, but for her grace, humility, and dedication off the track. She showed me that your legacy is about more than medals.
4. What was your first major professional milestone, and what did you learn from that experience?
Making the U.S. national team was a huge milestone for me. Standing on that platform with the flag across my shoulders was surreal. But what I learned most was that reaching a milestone is just the beginning—sustaining excellence takes even more work. That was the moment I shifted from being driven by the finish line to being driven by the process.
5. Were there any unexpected detours in your early career that ended up being valuable in the long run?
Injury, unfortunately, was one of those detours. At the time, it felt like a derailment. But in hindsight, it taught me patience, the importance of listening to my body, and how to pivot gracefully. It also forced me to explore other interests and develop skills that would serve me well beyond the track—especially in the work I do now, helping others tap into their potential in sports, education, or leadership.
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