By Mackenzie Farkus

Staff Writer

How do you balance school, work, and athletics?

Balancing school, work, and athletics at the collegiate level is a really tricky thing.  I’ve found that I have a better handle on my schedule when I sit down before the week begins and plan it all ahead of time.  However, this semester I’ve learned just how important it is to be flexible in your schedule as well.  Having the ability to manage your time effectively when an unexpected meeting comes up at work or when there is a last minute practice change is essential.      

What’s your favorite thing about playing basketball?

My favorite part about playing basketball is definitely having the opportunity to be a part of a team.  I think there’s something really special about team sports that allows you to contribute to a universal goal held by each player and coach.  This motivates me to work my hardest, not for myself but for my teammates.

What does an average day look like for you?

An average day for me usually starts with me heading from my apartment to academic campus for early morning class.  After class, I’ll hop on the T to spend a few hours  working at my internship.

When work is over I normally head back to my apartment for a quick dinner before either practice or a game.  After basketball ends,  I’ll head back to my apartment to finish off some homework and then settle in with some Netflix to end the day.         

How do you typically prepare for games?

When preparing for games I typically arrive to the Sports Center an hour and a half before game time.  For the first half hour I review my scouting report on the other team’s players and listen to some music to get me pumped up for the game.  At about an hour before the game starts I’ll change into my uniform and lace up my sneakers to go warm up with my team.

What are your goals for this semester?

In thinking about my last semester at Simmons, I really want to make the most of it in every way that I can.  I want to finish strong academically while also taking the time to really enjoy and appreciate my classes as they will be the last ones I ever take at the undergraduate level.  I want to continue to be successful at my internship by completing a company wide project that my boss has entrusted me with.

Finally, it’s my last season of basketball ever so I am going to do everything I can to help us do well.  It’s the first time in my four years that Simmons has made the GNAC playoffs so we definitely want to make a statement.

How has your experience on the Sharks basketball team helped you with your Computer Science major?

Playing basketball for Simmons has definitely helped me in my coursework for Computer Science.  In basketball, it’s incredibly important to have an understanding of each and every one of your teammates.

This way, you can strategize around them to find out what will work best for your team to be successful.  In my time spent studying Computer Science, I’ve found that similar principles apply- it’s all about finding the most efficient way to do something that works best for everyone involved.