Irene Schickhardt, CAS & SIS '09
Major: Economics & International Studies
Minor: Mathematics

A cold blustery day in Worcester, MA had Irene Schickhardt in a tough position in her first year at American University. The field hockey team was down and Irene was worried. If the team lost, she felt sure Coach Steve Jennings would have them practice the next day. She felt she couldn't practice the next day because she had too much studying to do. Irene did the only thing she could. She scored 2 goals to tie the game and then scored the golden goal in over-time for the win. She could have her entire Sunday to study.

This mental tenacity is why Irene was named Patriot League Scholar-Athlete of the Year, Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All-America in 2008. She also earned a spot on Dean's List and Patriot League Academic Honor Roll multiple times in her collegiate career.