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. Today we spoke with sophomore Lauren Freyvogel from Gibsonia, Pennsylvania.
Q. What was your favorite moment from the summer?
My favorite moment from the summer was winning the WGAWP Ginny Lancaster event at Pittsburgh Field Club in July. It was great just being able to get back to tournament play.
Q. What was it like returning to campus for the first time this fall and what was the first thing you did?
It was great returning to Penn State this fall. The first thing I did was move into my very own studio apartment. I'm really enjoying being on my own and increasing my independence. I'm even cooking on occasion. Baked salmon is my best dish so far.
Q. What is your favorite spot at Penn State and why?
My favorite spot at Penn State is the Arboretum. I love visiting the botanical gardens, they are so beautiful and peaceful.
Q. What type of activities have you been doing as a team since returning to campus?
Our team has been spending a lot of time together just hanging out. We'll get together and play different sorts of backyard games. Cornhole is my favorite. We're very competitive even in those games.
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 adjusted well to online learning. However, it is not my preference. My learning style is best suited to in person classes. Unlike previous years, all of my classes are online. It really helps to have my own space in my apartment to do my online classes and work. So far, I'm happy with my grades.
Q. What is the most interesting class you are taking this semester and why?
My most interesting class this semester is MIS. I'm interested in business and potentially planning to major in MIS with another business-related minor.
Q. With no official competition this fall what has your approach been and what are you looking to focus most on?
My approach this fall has been to concentrate on practicing and working on my game as much as possible. I'm focusing a lot of my time on improving my chipping.
Q. What is your most improved part of your game since arriving at Penn State?
The most improved part of my game is the mental aspect. I'm really focusing on visualizing each shot and my course management has improved.
Q. What is one golf course on your bucket list that you absolutely must play at some point in your life?
I would really love to play a round at Augusta National Golf Club. In 2014, I was very fortunate to have had an opportunity to putt on the 18th green when I was a finalist in the inaugural Drive Chip & Putt Championship. That was an awesome experience!
Q. What was it about golf that interested you and when did you begin playing?
I first started playing golf at the age of 5 when I participated in a golf summer camp for a week. I was hooked from my very first day! I started playing in tournaments at the age of 7. My family would drive two hours each way just so I could compete in 9-hole junior events. I love all the different courses and holes and the challenge that each golf shot presents.
