The student-athlete spotlight is a monthly Q&A feature from the Penn State Altoona Athletics Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.

Sarah Huston

Hometown: Coatesville, Pennsylvania

High School: Coatesville Area High School

Major: Kinesiology

Year: Senior

Sport(s): Women's basketball, women's soccer

In what ways do you identify yourself?

I am 21 years old, female, and of Asian descent.

What made you want to attend Penn State Altoona?

What brought me to attend Penn State Altoona is a handful of different reasons. To start off, I knew I wanted to attend a smaller school due to being able to be successful in my studies, as well as being able to form close knit relationships with my professors. Through this, it has allowed me to succeed in ways that I feel comfortable coming to them with any questions, as well as openly speaking my mind on any topics I do not fully understand. In addition, Penn State Altoona had a great reputation for their new up and growing Kinesiology major, which I have become a part of. Furthermore, what helped me to make my decision is that Penn State Altoona presented me the opportunity to play basketball and soccer while being very supportive and flexible of the responsibilities I would eventually encounter as being a two-sport athlete.

What are some of your favorite positive memories from your time as a Penn State Altoona student-athlete so far?

Some of my favorite positive memories from my time as a Penn State Altoona athlete includes traveling to away games in Buffalo, where we stopped at Niagara Falls. I also enjoyed the endless long bus rides that consisted of blasting music and everyone singing to the top of their lungs, as well as the sit-down meals we had, sharing laughs and creating a bond with each team that made it truly feel like family. Celebrating your teammates' accomplishments is also memorable, and celebrating Alexis Cannistraci becoming the all-time leading basketball scorer was a great moment and such a positive feeling. After months of everyday practices and games seeing your teammates every day, you become acclimated to being around these friends you have created, so as the season starts to come to a close, you strive to make the most out of your practices and the remainder of your season, which always becomes the most memorable. 

Have you ever had any instances in your sport where you felt that someone was being insensitive, or in which you felt personally attacked? If so, how did you handle that?

In my career at Penn State Altoona, I have experienced a time where I have felt personally attacked. My whole life when I get into games, I tend to be very focused and I am good at blocking things out. However, when a scenario like this happens, I try to stay focused and not think about what others may be saying or doing around me, just worrying about what happens on the court. I always try and give myself positive self-talk, as well as leaning on my teammates and peers for support and to help me stay focused.

In what ways have you felt supported by teammates, coaches, and/or the Athletics department?

My teammates, coaches, and the athletic department have been tremendously supportive. For starters, they always are checking up on me, as well as greeting me, whether it be passing by in a different building or even having to stop by in someone's office and being called by name. In addition, positive feedback or even constructive criticism has shown that people see potential in me and push me to be a better teammate, as well as a player. Furthermore, even little things to show support such as a high five or a positive comment, as well as long post or pregame talks, can create a supportive environment that shows the people around me care.

Outside of Athletics, how are you supported by the rest of the Penn State Altoona campus community?

In addition to the people outside of athletics, I feel supported by constant communication from my friends. Being so close to each other, we always get to see each other and they will always check up on me by texting or calling me. Professors and my friends also support me by coming to my games to cheer me on and even making posters. Since I have been able to establish solid relationships with my professors, it has allowed for more open conversations and comfortability in the classroom.

Do you have any advice or encouraging words for fellow student-athletes at Penn State Altoona?

Advice for fellow student-athletes coming to Penn State Altoona is to force yourself to step out of your comfort zone – it is the only way you will grow. In addition, time management is crucial and learning how to balance your schoolwork with practices, as well as a social life. Do not be afraid to ask upperclassmen for help, or even confiding in them with any concerns or problems you might face, because guaranteed they have experienced the same scenario already. You will make mistakes, struggle in classes, and may even fall behind, but do not be afraid to use your resources and make sure you learn from situations and let it be a lesson. Finally, the most important thing is to have fun, but be smart, meet new people, join a club and talk to people in class. Make the most of your experience in college and lean on your support system. It will be worthwhile, and you will make unforgettable memories!