Division III Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Own Words by Emily Nover

WASHINGTON – Gallaudet University athletics is proud to participate in the 11th annual NCAA Division III Week (April 4-10) in an effort to celebrate the impact athletics and Bison student-athletes have on our campus and the surrounding community. GU is joining 438 Division III institutions and 43 voting conferences in this week’s celebration.

To help focus on the many student-athletes that represent Gallaudet athletics we will spotlight two different student-athletes each day this week. You will learn more about them as they express their feelings on what it is like to be a Division III student-athlete here at Gallaudet. Interviews were conducted by the Gallaudet Sports Information Office.

Freshman Emily Nover (District Heights, Md.) is a first-year student-athlete on the women’s volleyball and softball teams. Nover’s major is undeclared and is expected to graduate in May 2024.

In My Own Words: Emily Nover

When do you plan on graduating and what is your major and minor?
EN: I am still undeclared for my major and minor but I hope to decide soon. I plan to graduate in May 2024.

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college? 
EN: Being a student-athlete in college takes a whole new level of commitment to your sport(s). It is not a set schedule, there might be workouts, practices, and games at any time of the week, along with classes and social life. Time management is key to having a good balance between all these. There are more facets to the athlete experience than in high school, and it might not be fun at some moments but the results do pay off, making it all worth it. You get better and your skills go up, along with your physical fitness. There’s also the added benefit of being able to continue playing for a few more years – being able to play past high school is something I am thankful for.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
EN: At Gallaudet, it’s just like any other teams I’ve had growing up but with the added benefit of having full communication access in American Sign Language (ASL). The coaches want to see you grow as an athlete and a person both on and off the court, and they actively make sure you take the steps to improve. Being a student-athlete here means that you represent Gallaudet everywhere, even during the offseason. That means being a great student and athlete. It’s been really cool to meet and interact with former Gallaudet athletes/coaches (who are also great fans!) during the year,…