...small class sizes allow for relationships with both teachers and peers, which is important to me. The tennis program and the atmosphere within the team are incredible, making me feel right at home...
Name: Lily Hershey
Class year: 2027
Major: Psychology
Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose Ohio Wesleyan University because its small class sizes allow for relationships with both teachers and peers, which is important to me. The tennis program and the atmosphere within the team are incredible, making me feel right at home. Plus, even though it's a smaller town, there are endless things to do!
Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I'm passionate about understanding why people behave the way they do and finding ways to improve their well-being. I want to make a positive impact in children's lives by helping them in the ways I needed and others I knew needed, too. While I'm not yet certain about the specific area of the work field I want to go into, psychology offers the flexibility to explore different paths and find where I truly belong.
Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
Since I started playing tennis, competing at the college level has always been a dream of mine. After one of my tournaments, I had an in-depth conversation with Coach Lance Shearer, who shared all the incredible opportunities the program offers, like the Florida training trip, playing on the Cincinnati Open courts, and much more. He also explained the program's core values and goals, emphasizing how it fosters growth, prioritizes academics, and ensures we have fun along the way. It immediately felt like the perfect fit for me!
Why do you like your position?:
I like my position because playing first singles and doubles is a huge mental challenge that pushes me to test my skills and improve in areas I need to grow. My doubles position is especially meaningful to me since I get to play with Frankie Nuss —- we have a great time together and play very well together! She constantly reminds me why I love playing tennis.
What athletic or academic achievement/accomplishment are you most proud of?
I'm most proud of making the Dean's List during both the fall and spring semesters of my first year. Adjusting to the new class formats and assignments was challenging, but I'm proud of how I handled it.
What did you do to put yourself in position to achieve that?
I created a homework and study schedule and, despite the difficulty of staying consistent, I stuck with it, and it paid off!
Which three people, living or dead, would you like to share a meal with?
Taylor Swift, Coco Gauff, and my papa.
If you could visit another time, when would it be and why?
If I could visit another time, I’d go back to 1969 and attend Woodstock. Ever since learning about that era in history class, I've been fascinated by the music and culture. Experiencing such an iconic moment in history firsthand would be incredible.
What is your favorite book and why?
My favorite book is "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." It was one of the first books I ever picked out at the bookstore, the cover was leather and it had a little brown string to tie it shut. I was in love, I read it at least 10 times that year and still do every chance I get. Huckleberry taught me to be brave and stand up for what is right even when it is scary.
by Michaela Alfano '25
