Question: Describe what it is like competing on the elite national and world level? What goes through your mind when performing? And how does what you wear impact how you perform?
Answer: Competing on a world level is an experience like no other. Before I go on the floor, I have a ritual I do which consists of me jumping around and people usually stare at me like I am crazy but for some reason it's what I have to do. There is nothing more special than hearing the rest of the country chanting USA as you are taking the floor. I am always overwhelmed with a sense of pride and nerves as I walk up to my lane. When I am competing, I always go on automatic pilot and let my hundreds of hours in the gym take over. Sometimes it can be hard to not let the moment overwhelm you, but you have to just focus in and remember how much you prepared in the gym. I am very picky with my costumes, I do not want to feel like I am wearing a costume because it helps me feel like I am still at practice. Everything has to fit like a glove to make me feel my absolute best.