Catherine Kerrigan '23 Recruiting Profile

 While it may appear due to my excellent grades and athletic achievements that I am a naturally gifted individual, the truth is much more complicated. At a young age, I was diagnosed with severe dyslexia and ADHD. The perseverance and fortitude it took to overcome these disabilities shaped the incredibly driven individual that I am today - one that strives to graduate at the top of her class and attend a highly academic university.

Running was not my first choice when it came to extracurricular activities. I’m very artistic and attended the competitive Orange County School of Arts with a focus on nature photography, sketching, and painting in middle school. I believe my dyslexia and ADHD have given me an edge when it comes to my perspective on art, as well as academics and athletics.  After two years in a competitive art school, I switched gears for high school and discovered for the first time my love of running. I also joined the water polo team and surf team my freshman year but really found my calling as a member of the Mater Dei High School cross country team. Running was a stress relief from the academic rigors of high school and also taught me skills that are useful as an athlete, student, and a contributing member of society. I’ve learned time management, the ability to perform under pressure, and the discipline to work hard when no one is looking. Most importantly, when faced with difficult obstacles, I’ve learned to take a step back and regroup to develop new strategies. This skill became particularly important when my family moved from Orange County, California (population:  3.1 million) to Incline Village, Nevada (8,600/altitude 6,505).  Running has taught me that I can handle so much more than I thought, in terms of both speed and endurance, as well as in the classroom. I look forward to continuing to exceed expectations at the college level both in the classroom and on the track!