Maria was like a caged tiger. Not being able to compete killed her. She wanted to contribute so badly.
Maria is responsible both socially and academically. She knows that as a student-athlete, you have to make sacrifices; you have to live healthy lives and Maria definitely does. We want our freshmen to model themselves after her.
Maria has great inner strength and self-awareness of her ability. In the race, when others are getting down on themselves, Maria has faith in her training and ability.