Maria Davila Cadena '20 Recruiting Profile

In college, I hope to major in biology or nursing and establish or join a program to help people with disabilities in need of monetary, emotional, and physical assistance. I have been swimming since I was 7 and a half years old and even though my sister is the reason why I started, I have fallen in love with the sport and would like to continue throughout college. I believe that in order to succeed, friends and family are needed to support you on your journey and likewise, you need to support them on theirs. Since I was little, I've always figured out multiple ways to solve problems--such as in math and science--that others didn't realize were there.  This has translated into unique leadership skills in other aspects of my life, such as in swimming where I motivate my teammates through rough training at practices and "bad" swims at meets. I always have a smile on my face and am not afraid to be myself; I constantly make sure those around me are having a good day and work to make sure they feel included. My favorite strokes have been backstroke and butterfly ever since I was 8 years old.