Today the OSN Spotlight, presented by Blackbeard Marine, shines on Arianna Baker!
• Southeastern volleyball
• Hometown: Arlington, Texas
• Psychology major expected to graduate in spring 2019
• Favorite teams or players: “I’ve never had a favorite sports team or player, but I have always admired raw talent. In regards to sports, I like to watch “good” games with fair competition. When watching games I tend to pick the team I want to win based off of team connection, dedication, character and skill.”
• Favorite sports moment – personal: “My personal favorite sports moment goes all the way back to the beginning of my freshman year of high school. Undergoing much adversity, I maintained a positive attitude and never gave up on myself. From making freshman A team, moving up to junior varsity, back down to freshman A, and all the way up to varsity within a two-week period, while practicing multiple positions, emotions were high, but I was determined to make it to the top. The drive I had then definitely set a tone for the drive I continue to have in all areas of my life.”
• Favorite sports moment – overall: “My favorite sports moment overall was winning the GAC 2016 tournament semifinal. Despite being seeded No. 8, history was made beginning with a big win over the top seeded team in the GAC tournament. My team and I not only proved to others, but also ourselves that when we put our mind to something, we are more than capable of accomplishing it. The feeling of winning a game that no one expected us to win was amazing. I can honestly say that that game was played with pure heart from every individual on my team. During that moment, everyone had the same goal, and everyone had faith that we would accomplish that goal, making it my favorite sports moment throughout my collegiate career.”
• What do you like most about SE? “Southeastern is a rather small university, which allows individuals to create amazing bonds and connections around campus. The professors are extremely personable and desire to help their students succeed. Also, with being a student athlete, I receive recognition for my hard work and dedication both on and off the court, which allows me to always hold myself accountable.”
• Who do you most look up to? “My mother is my biggest role model. Regardless of the circumstances, she does what she’s expected to do and more. My mother’s drive and work ethic motivates me to not only work for myself and my future, but also to make her proud.”
• Goals: “I plan on graduating with my bachelor’s in May 2019. Following my bachelor’s, I plan on going to grad school to receive my master’s degree in counseling. Depending on future circumstances, I may or may not pursue a doctorate. As of now, I plan on becoming a counselor or sports psychologist.”