Annie Gilman is a freshman cross country runner at the University of Hartford. She is from Lowell, Massachusetts, and is currently studying radiology. Gilman is definitely making her mark at the University of Hartford already where she is the third fastest cross country runner on the team as a freshman while also excelling academically but how does she do it? Let's take a look at how Annie Gilman is adjusting from high school to college life. 

What was it like transitioning from the high school level to the college level in sports and academics?

I definitely have to be a lot more independent than I did in high school when it comes to making sure I have everything that I need to help me succeed in academics and athletics. I have learned that it is important to motivate, push yourself, and stay organized to get your work done in time because although there are fewer classes there is a lot more homework that can be done a month after it is assigned so you really need to keep track.

How are you adjusting to the training this cross country season?

I am adjusting to the training well and definitely feel like I am improving with the increased mileage and the faster pace that we run as a team. The only thing that is different and I am struggling with is the early morning practices for workout days because my body is not used to it yet due to practicing in the afternoon in high school. 

What is it like juggling athletics and school?

It is definitely a lot more difficult than high school because I feel like I have a lot of work to do all the time plus going to practice and lift which has been impacting my sleep. In high school the practices were just once a day right after school so I felt like I had more time to get all of my work done. Comparing that to now, where there are different times throughout the day and sometimes there are even two practices a day.

What are your goals for this season?

My goals this cross country season are to break 24 minutes for the 6k and 19 for the 5k. However, for the track season, I am excited to run a 5k for the first time on the track to see what I can do there. 

Is the team culture different in high school than in college?

The team is pretty similar to my high school team where there are no segregated groups and the whole team is supportive of one another. 

Do you have any advice for seniors this year who are working on the recruiting process?

My biggest advice is to make a schedule and stick to it because school and practice can be time-consuming so it is important not to miss anything. Also, I recommend that you build a good friendship with your team as they will become your family and the people you go to with everything.