With the fall semester nearing its midway point we were able to check in with some of our student-athletes to see how they have been adjusting since returning to campus. We spoke with sophomore Isha Dhruva from Katy, Texas.
Q. What was your favorite moment from the summer?
From the summer I just enjoyed getting back into tournaments after not playing any since March. It was nice to get back out there and compete.
Q. What was it like returning to campus for the first time this fall and what was the first thing you did?
It was so nice to be back, we were all gone for so long and I definitely missed State College. Walking around campus and getting Creamery ice cream was the first thing I did when I got back.
Q. What is your favorite spot at Penn State and why?
My favorite spot (when the weather's nice) is just outside of the Hub on the lawn. It's a great place to study and see everyone going about their day.
Q. What type of activities have you been doing as a team since returning to campus?
We've been doing a lot of inner competition. Since we are unable to have a fall season, we are trying to simulate as much of that competition as possible, and be ready for when we eventually do have a season.
Q. How are you adjusting to hybrid learning? How many in person classes do you have and how are they different from previous years?
I have one in person in class, it's definitely weird to not interact with other students and do group work, but professors are doing a great job of interacting with us on zoom and ensuring we understand the content.
Q. What is the most interesting class you are taking this semester and why?
My kinesiology class because it is all about how self-reflection and self-awareness influence your daily life, and how we can do little things throughout the day to positively influence our bodies.
Q. With no official competition this fall what has your approach been and what are you looking to focus most on?
My approach has been to just keep practicing as if we were to have a season – a lot of us are still playing individual tournaments which helps us to still be a in a competitive mindset. Lately, I've been putting most of my focus on putting and iron accuracy.
Q. What is your most improved part of your game since arriving at Penn State?
The most improved part would be my course management. Being able to go to a few tournaments last year really helped me see the preparation that should go into every round.
Q. What is one golf course on your bucket list that you absolutely must play at some point in your life?
Augusta National for sure.
Q. What was it about golf that interested you and when did you begin playing?
I began playing right after my sister, so when I was about five. Overall, I just love the quietness and the competitiveness of the sport: when you're on the golf course playing, other problems in your life kind of just fade away and your only focus is to compete and play.
