Aislinn Strusz, a senior and English major from Aurora, Illinois has been a standout in volleyball and softball for the Blue Angels.  She also has filled in for Mount Mary basketball program and been a consistent servant leader while working various jobs within the MMU athletic department.   Through 13 games this season, Strusz is batting an impressive .486, with 17 hits and 15 runs batted it.  She has also played impeccable defense in Center field, committing no errors so far this season.

Aislinn answered some questions this week for the Mount Mary Athletic communication department regarding her time at Mount Mary and some of the highlights of her time at MMU.

Why did you choose Mount Mary?

Truthfully, I didn't even know Mount Mary existed until I met Perry Clark. I was behind on looking at colleges, so I gave MMU a shot. During my visit, I loved the architecture of the buildings, and I heard a lot of things I liked. For example, the small classroom sizes and how there are a lot of things to do outside of campus as well. I also learned about the softball program, and I really liked Perry's coaching philosophy. I liked the idea of the team is a family and thought I could fit in well. 

What has been the highlight of your time at MMU?

 In high school, I typically stuck with the same crowd of friends I had in the very beginning. It was scary for me to make friends. I wasn't in an environment where I could reach out to other people without anxiety getting the best of me. At MMU, from my freshman to senior year, I was constantly making new friends. I didn't think I could make as many friends as I did over the years. So, a highlight for me would be breaking down my walls and creating several friendships that I hope will last a lifetime. Reaching out of my comfort zone is something I'll always be proud of. It helped me form the friendships I have today, and I couldn't be more thankful.

What are your plans and goals after graduation?

 I don't really know what I'm doing yet, or at least it's not set in stone. I hope to become a Social Media Manager. I haven't really decided what that entails, or if that's even definitively what I'm going to do. Is still have some time to figure out the fine details, but it's coming up faster than I thought. Whatever I end up doing, I hope it's something that makes me happy and that I can continue to do for a long time. 

Why would you tell a prospective student to come to Mount Mary?

I would tell a student to consider Mount Mary because of what we stand for. I've never had the pleasure of saying that quite literally everyone you meet is friendly. I've never had one bad experience with a classmate at MMU. We're all here for one thing-- to get educated. As I said before, the classroom sizes are smaller compared to Co-ed schools. this gives you a chance to know your professor a little better and be able to talk to them when you need help. It gives you a better chance to get one-on-one help if you're struggling. The professors are also really good about giving you extra help if you ask for it. Most of them are super understanding with things like that.