Swimming has also surrounded me with people that have allowed me to see that good grades and being intelligent are invaluable strengths that will allow us to achieve perfection after we have hung up our cap and goggles. Thank you, swimming, for helping me build confidence in who I am and what I can do.

Thank you swimming for waking me up at 5:00 am multiple times a week and giving me crucial exams during championship meet weeks. Thank you for giving me one of the most prestigious programs athletically and academically and teaching me how to delicately navigate my way through the challenges you threw at me. You taught me that talent was not enough and you showed me that success has to be earned from grit, perseverance, sacrifice, and determination. When I look in the mirror I can see Dr. Diener because of those challenges.

A coach once told me during a recruiting call that if I came to Texas I would find the bridesmaids for my wedding. While I have no intention on being married any time soon, I have no doubt in my mind that I know who the women will be standing by my side on every special day of my life. Thank you swimming for giving me the people that will support me, lift me up, and push me to achieve far more than I ever could on my own.

Being around a culture of achievement set the bar high and made me push for excellence. Being recognized as a Top 30 Honoree for the NCAA Woman of the Year would not have been possible without the people that have surrounded me and supported me throughout the last four years.

Swimming, I would not be who I am without you. You have molded me from a nervous, timid freshman at the University of Texas to a confident, empowered young woman who is ready to take on the challenges that life will throw at me. While our time together may be ending, you will be with me always.