Name: Allison Martin
Sport: field hockey
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
High School: Columbus Academy
Activities/Clubs/Committees: Relay for Life committee, Premed Society

Why did you choose Haverford?
Haverford is a great school, and I knew I wanted a small school with a closed campus. I also really liked the fact that Philadelphia was so close so going into the city was always an option too. Add field hockey on top of that, and it was the best fit for me. When I had my official visit, I absolutely loved the team and wanted to be a part of it. My high school team was really close and my coach always said there would be nothing like Academy field hockey, but I have found that and more at Haverford.

What is your favorite team experience?
It's really hard to choose just one. Whenever our team is together, we have so much fun. My favorite times together are just when we're getting pumped up, listening to music before a game, or when we go out to eat as a team, or have movie night together. A lot of times the best part of my day is being able to go out to the field and see everyone at practice and just let go of the stress of the day.

Why did you choose to play a sport in college?
I ended up choosing to play a sport in college because I couldn't imagine my life without playing a sport. Ever since middle school I played a sport every season throughout the year so sports became a huge part of my life and a great release. They have also taught me how to manage my time and balance different parts of my life.

What does being a student-athlete mean to you?
Being a student-athlete means having the determination and commitment to excel in the classroom as well as on the field. It's being able to manage your time and get through the crazy schedule you have between academics and athletics and become stronger for it.

What makes Haverford unique?
What makes Haverford unique is the community. The Honor Code attracts a certain type of person that makes living at Haverford so great because everyone can get along and coexist peacefully. The people I've met at Haverford have all been such great people who come from many different backgrounds. The field hockey team also set Haverford apart for me because I knew it was a group of girls I wanted to be a part of.

What advice would you give a High School student considering Haverford?
Come visit Haverford! Being on campus will really give you a feel for what college and Haverford is all about and more importantly if it is a good fit for you. If you're considering playing a sport, meeting and hanging out with the team also can shed light on if you can see yourself with the team. It can be really helpful when you're down to two or three similar schools because sports and particular teams can push one ahead of the others.

What are your thoughts on the Honor Code?
I love the Honor Code. Knowing that there is a mutual respect among you and your professors and classmates and coaches and community, allows you to become who you want to be. The fact that I can take an exam in my room when I want to is so nice, but it's also how the Honor Code extends into all facets of life, academic and social. The honor code makes you feel safe, something that you won't find on some campuses.