Ohio Wesleyan University Athletics

I like diving because it is so similar to gymnastics and it has taught me how to remain poised under pressure and to be persistent....

Name:  Aniya (A.J.) Johnson

Class year:  2025

Major:  Politics and government

Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose Ohio Wesleyan because my grandmother is an alumna and because I wanted to utilize OWU's excellent study abroad program.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I originally wanted to be a politician, but I realized very quickly that I didn't.  However, I wanted to stick with the PG major because there is a huge variety of jobs that I am interested in that fall under the PG avenue.

Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan because I had 12 years of competitive gymnastics under my belt and I wanted to remain active throughout my time in college.  Coach (Richard) Hawes also played a huge role in my decision and he thought that I would catch on quickly.

Which is your favorite event?
I have a love-hate relationship with 3-meter (diving) and I do enjoy it, but I definitely feel more confident on the 1-meter board.

Do you have any pre-event rituals or superstitions?
My pre-event ritual is to close my eyes and envision myself doing all of my dives perfectly.

Why do you like your event?
I like diving because it is so similar to gymnastics and it has taught me how to remain poised under pressure and to be persistent.  The best feeling in the world is to overcome a mental block and to learn new dives.

What event/sport other than your own would you like to try?
I would love to try pole vaulting because I have been told that gymnasts make exceptional pole vaulters and that it is a great transition sport.  I think I could be pretty good at it if I tried!

What is your favorite place to eat in Delaware, and what is your go-to dish there?
My favorite place to eat in Delaware is the Yokai Ramen Bistro and I always get Miso Ramen.

What is your theme song?
Anything by Pop Smoke

What is your dream job and why?
My dream job is to get paid to travel around the world or to be an ambassador for a country.