Jenna Braun '20 Recruiting Profile

My time at Stratton Mountain school has made me realize that I can achieve goals I never thought imaginable.  Each year I miss approximately 50 days of school due to alpine ski racing competitions.   My commitment to giving 100% and maintaining a GPA of 90 or above has meant that I have had to study harder, work independently, and never fall behind in my academics. My self-motivation to be the best that I can be is not limited to my academic career.  When I was accepted into the eighth grade program at Stratton Mountain School, I had to make a difficult decision and choose between my two loves: soccer and skiing.   I never gave up my love for soccer.  For the first couple of years, I traveled back and forth to New Jersey on weekends to continue to play on a competitive soccer team. I made the varsity team at Stratton Mountain School as the starting goalie in eighth grade. Working harder than any person I know, I wanted to prove to myself that I can set goals for myself and reach them.  For example, when I started at SMS, I got a seven on the beep test, a physical fitness test that analyzes an athlete’s aerobic capacity. Three years later, I have improved that score to a thirteen, the best in my school’s history for alpine girls. I have expanded my aerobic capacity to the point that I can easily run a half marathon. I not only found a love for running but also a love for Crossfit, a fitness program that incorporates high-intensity movements.. In the summer, I spend my time working out at my crossfit gym, running around the track, or at home spending quality time with my friends and family. Any team I join, I will give 100% commitment to that team and to my teammates.  Beginning my ski racing career in New Jersey put me at a huge disadvantage when I started racing in Vermont. Most people immediately counted me out. They never thought that the girl from New Jersey would be in the top 10 at any race. That year and each year since, I have worked harder than anyone—getting to the mountain early, training harder, doing extra workouts, and never giving up. Each year I have been able to prove the naysayers wrong. Throughout my time at Stratton Mountain School, my teachers, coaches, and I expect nothing but the best of me. I will move forward in the future continuing every day to strive to be the best I can be.