Kaitlyn Jerbi

“I choose Carthage for the academic and athletic opportunities, and the people who are a part of this campus. With academics, I really like the idea of smaller class sizes and getting an education that allows me to work together with my professors and other students. When I first visited, I was drawn to the limitless resources available to help me prepare for my future and the many clubs or extracurriculars. Regarding athletics, I am grateful to be somewhere I can become the best student-athlete I can be. The community here on campus — from staff, coaches, and other students — makes Carthage feel like home.”

“Being a Firebird means having access to opportunities that help us grow into the best versions of ourselves and enjoying every step in the process.”

“I really enjoy the pre-season activities we do as a team for cross country. It’s nice when we return to campus and get ready for the season with team-bonding activities. It’s a very welcoming moment for our newcomers, and it allows us to create great connections within our team as a whole. I will always be grateful for every uplifting, heartfelt, and meaningful moment I share with the team.”

“The community makes Carthage stand out. Everyone here is supportive, which makes our student-athlete teams feel like a family. There are many ways to be a part of something, from clubs to athletics, and there is always someone willing to support you.”

“The big thing I always do to balance being a student and an athlete is focus on time management. Planning my day the night before or little things like that makes a difference in what I can manage and take on as a student-athlete. Knowing I have the opportunity to grow as an athlete and a student with supportive people behind me helps me stay organized and focused, even during the busiest moments of schoolwork and competitions.”

“Professors and coaches are some of my biggest supporters. They always want to see me succeed, and they always help me reach my potential or achieve something I never could’ve imagined.”

“My biggest accomplishment at Carthage is not necessarily a specific moment in time but more so the growth I have seen in myself as an individual over the years. Seeing how much I’ve grown since my first year makes me realize how grateful I am for the opportunity to succeed — as an athlete and academically. The constant support from those around me, along with staying determined and working hard toward my goals, is what helps me be the best student-athlete I can be.”

“My favorite athletic facilities at Carthage are the indoor and outdoor track fields, where I train every day to improve my skills.”

“Besides being a part of Carthage’s cross country and track and field teams, I am also a worker for the Athletic Communications Office. Working for the office has allowed me to grow by giving me hands-on experience at sports events and teaching me the skills needed for a future career in the sports industry. It is incredible to be able to compete in athletics while also having the opportunity to create graphics to promote other sports teams here at Carthage.”

“Enjoy every moment of competing at the college level! Being able to focus on my future career while also achieving personal goals through my sport is an incredibly rewarding experience.”