I chose to be an HHK major because I found a passion for helping people...
Name: Amara Carlson
Class year: 2025
Major: Health & human kinetics and public health double major, nutrition minor
Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I first visited OWU because my brother played basketball here. I fell in love with campus, the girls on the lacrosse team, and I also liked how close it was to home for me. I loved how students and professors are able to work closely together, and I was treated like a person rather than a statistic sitting in a big lecture hall. An added bonus was I got to attend school with my brother for a year!
Why did you choose your major?
I chose to be an HHK major because I found a passion for helping people. All throughout high school I knew I wanted to work in the medical field, and possibly go to PA school after college. HHK is the perfect major because I am exploring the sports and exercise science aspect of the medical field that could allow me to be a PA or PT one day. My PT from when I tore my ACL inspired me to explore the exercise science part of the medical field and I'm really happy with the opportunities the HHK department provides.
Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
I never thought I wanted to play sports in college but I am really happy I decided to do so. I love lacrosse and I love to compete, travel, and meet new people. OWU and Coach Paige (Messersmith) gave me an opportunity I couldn't resist. I chose to play lacrosse here because of the chance to compete at a higher level and reach my full potential that I had no idea existed. College athletics have shown me how to manage time, work hard, and be a leader, which are all going to be crucial skills I take forward into my future after I graduate.
Do you have any pre-event rituals or superstitions?
I always wear two pairs of socks during any game. It's been a superstition ever since I came to college and we practiced in 10-degree weather. Even when it's 80 degrees I will be wearing two pairs of socks - don’t come for me! Another one of my superstitions is always having to have some sort of braid in my hair when I play. It's been tradition ever since high school and I can't break the trend now!
Why do you like your position?
I like being a midfielder because I can play both attack and defense. I get the chance to score and assist, but also get the chance to try and stop the scoring. Being a midfielder definitely keeps me in shape with all of the running and I like being able to play and work with my team and different people on both sides of the ball.
What event/sport other than your own would you like to try?
I want to try golf! I've dabbled in it for fun but I have never competed.
What are your strengths as an athlete?
I think one of my most valuable strengths as an athlete is my motivation. I am highly motivated to compete, win, and push myself to succeed. I think another important strength I possess is my ability to lead. I have always found myself to be a natural leader, and it's a really important skill to have on and off the field. Being a leader means picking people up when they are down, setting an example even when no one is watching, and being empathetic and supportive of those around you. I have learned that a leader is not always someone who is the loudest on the field, rather someone that people can go to in times of crisis and in times of need for extra support.
Which reality show would you like to star on and why?
I would love to go on the show Survivor because it's competitive, challenging, and fun. It's one of my favorite shows!
If you could visit another time, when would it be and why?
The early 2000s - it wasn’t long ago but I know things were totally different back then. I want to witness firsthand what has changed over time.
What is your theme song?
"Where is the Love?" by Black Eyed Peas
by Michaela Alfano '25
