What year and where did you participate in GOTR?
"I participated in Girls on the Run in 4th grade so 2013 and was a buddy in middle school. I was a part of Flemington GOTR and then became a buddy for Weisenburg Elementary school."
What do you remember most about being a part of the program?
"I loved the celebration 5k. Girls on the Run was the first time I was introduced to running and I have loved it ever since. The atmosphere and positivity of this program shaped me into who I am today. Ever since my first experience in Girls on the Run, I joined track and cross country that I did from middle school until highschool. This program taught me confidence, resilience, and gave me a love for being a part of a team. After my experience as a runner, I then became a buddy. I am so happy I now have the opportunity to be a coach as it feels like a full circle moment!"
What do you think is the lesson you learned from GOTR that you use most in your adult life?
"The biggest lesson I learned from the GOTR is to Never Give Up. This program gave me a love for sports as well as confidence. All of these mindsets has taught me to believe in myself and persevere. As an adult, I do this every day in work and running which I still love to do. I strive to push myself every day and work hard."
What has your journey looked like since Girls on the Run?
"Since Girls on the Run, I developed my love for running and pursued this in my daily life. In middle school, I was so excited and joined track and following the track season, I joined cross country. I was a part of these teams throughout high school and won Districts with my team, along with getting an honorable mention for EPCs. I then went to Penn State University where I joined the Club XC team all 4 years of college. Girls on the Run has led me to make so many friendships as this sport has been with me ever since. At Penn State University, I majored in elementary education and now am a 4th grade teacher! I still run and workout every day and now I have the opportunity to give back to the community and be the Girls on the Run Coach where I teach. I continue to bring the values of Girls on the Run with me in my classroom to empower my students and allow them to feel find something they love!"
What advice would you share with girls participating in GOTR this season?
"Some advice I would share with the girls participating is to "Work hard, Have fun, and Be Amazing! This is your time to find something you love and make new friends. Keep every moment close to your heart and learn from the lessons that are taught. You got this and keep believing in yourself!"