Name: Patrick Girard
Sport: Men's Lacrosse
Hometown: Avondale Estates, Ga.
High School: St. Pius X
Activities/Clubs/Committees: Intramural Basketball, Golf Club
Why did you choose Haverford?
Initially, I liked the idea of attending a liberal arts college, because coming out of high school I did not really know which direction I wanted to take my life. I liked that I could come to Haverford, take a wide array of classes over my first year or two, and then find what I liked best academically and go with it. Secondly, I chose Haverford because it had the best combination of academics and lacrosse for me. I wanted to attend the best college or university that I could, while at the same time being a part of a great lacrosse program, and Haverford combined both of those for me.
What is your favorite team experience?
My favorite team experience is being in the locker room after a big win. Everyone is pumped up and excited, we have music blasting, and it's just a lot of fun to be a part of.
Why did you choose to play a sport in college?
Lacrosse has always been one of my favorite things in life, and I wanted to continue to play at the next level after high school. I was lucky enough to have the talent to be able to play at the collegiate level, and I wanted to take advantage of that.
What does being a student-athlete mean to you?
Being a student-athlete means a lot to me. Besides teaching me time-management, commitment, and hard work, I think most importantly it reminds me that I am a part of something bigger than myself. I am not just at Haverford to further myself and obtain my own goals, but instead I am a part of something bigger and working hard and staying committed to make more than just myself better.
What makes Haverford unique?
I think what makes Haverford unique is the academic environment. I have never been to a place where I have been surrounded by such bright people who love what they are involved with. That being said, I have never felt overwhelmed or intimidated by that, and I think the Honor Code, in part, is the reason for that. It creates and academic environment that isn't competitive, but instead an environment where everyone is working together to achieve their goals.
What advice would you give a high school student considering Haverford?
Take as many opportunities as you can to visit this school, and all of the schools you are interested in. Coming to campus and staying the night and spending time here during the school years gives you a good sense of what it is like to be at Haverford, and whether or not it is right for you.
What are your thoughts on the Honor Code?
I think the Honor Code is an important part of what makes Haverford special. It really puts power and responsibility into the students' hands, and with the administration's assistance it helps create an environment both in and out of the classroom that the students love and enjoy.