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Larissa Stryzharz

Larissa Stryzharz

Year: Senior
Position/Event: Distance
Hometown: Hamilton, N.J.
High School: Steinert
Major: Sociology with a track in Law and Society

 

Why did you choose Moravian College?
The minute I walked on campus Moravian felt like home. Other colleges that I visited it seemed like students were just another number to professors in the classroom. When I was sitting in on a lecture back in 2013, the professors showed me that they truly care about their students. When I started looking at potential schools pertaining to where I could run Moravian was my top pick. Coach Baumann surely took the time to show his attention and desire to have me on his team. He sent me a handwritten letter, which he does for every recruit. It shows you that he's taking time of his day to hand write the letter, and express how your running abilities would be a perfect fit at Moravian. 

What is your major and why?
I choose my major because I want to help individuals, and improve the situation within the law enforcement field. 

What has been your favorite course at Moravian and why?
My first semester I was determining whether or not I wanted to major in Law and Society or Political Science. During my introduction to sociology course I began to realize what career path I wanted to take. Dr. Adams O'Connell allowed me to realize that. 

What are your plans for the future once you finish your degree at Moravian?
Once I graduate this coming spring I hope to be working within NJ State Police, or as a probation officer.

What is your most memorable moment as a Greyhound?
As I look back on my last four years at Moravian. I would have say all the memories our 2016 Crosscountry Team has made throughout this past season. I have ever been more happy to be running, and going to practice every day. Every single girl on the team has a special place in my heart. Our team is truly a family, and I'm so excited to see what our distance team accomplishes in indoor and outdoor track. 

How has being an athlete helped you as a student?
It has allowed me to become a better student. When your a college student athlete you have a extremely busy schedule. You have to learn to develop efficient time management skills in order to finish all your homework, and study for exams. 

What is the hardest part of your sport?
Running is an extremely mental sport. During, a race sometimes it's hard to push passed that mental block. But, throughout the years I have tried to just run with my heart and block out all the negative thoughts that come into my mind. 

Name one obstacle or form of adversity you have had to overcome.

Throughout my sophomore year at Moravian I was going through a mental block, and injuries. Running become a chore and wasn't fun anymore. As I entered my junior year, I wanted to change my attitude, and become healthy so I would gain back my love for running. Once, senior year was here I became the runner who I always wanted to be at Moravian.  

Why is community service important to your role as a student-athlete at Moravian?
Giving back to the community is an important aspect. Our entire team back in September participated in Heritage Day were we had a chance to put smiles on children faces, and perform community service activities the entire day.

What advice do you have for a prospective Moravian College student-athlete?
My advice to prospective Moravian College athlete would be that running at Moravian was my favorite part of college. Your teammates become your family, and they will always have your back in matter what situation you encounter at Moravian. Four years of playing/running your sport goes by extremely fast so enjoy every second. I wouldn't change my decision about running at Moravian for anything. If you decide to become an athlete at Moravian it will be rewarding, and you will gain forever friends. 

Favorite:
Color? Blue
Food? Lasagna 
Restaurant? Delorenzo's (Best Pizza in NJ)
Movie? Lone Survivor 
TV Show? Criminal Minds
Musical Artist? Kenny Chesney
Athlete? Jordan Hasay
Pro Team? New York Yankees
Hobbies? Watching Netflix
Most Prized Possession? A ring that my mom gave me. It has been passed down throughout generations
Biggest Fear? Heights