Sept. 15, 2011
Senior runner Allison Schroeder from Ottawa, Ohio began this season an 11th-place finish at the Crusader Invitational. Schroeder covered the five-kilometer course in 19:05.4 on September 2. She and her teammates are preparing for this Friday’s National Catholic Championships that will be held at Notre Dame. Recently, Schroeder sat down with Jillian Barwick of UND.com to tell us more about herself and her career at Notre Dame.
When did you first decide to become a runner?
I started running track in seventh grade basically because I wanted to participate in a sport in the spring (which was my only open season since I was on the swim team in the summer, played soccer in the fall, and played basketball in the winter.)
Why did you choose running over playing soccer and basketball?
Of the three sports I played in high school, I chose to run track in college because that was the sport that I would have the best chance to compete at the division 1 level. I really enjoyed playing basketball and soccer, but I never played on club or AAU teams, which was almost necessary to get recognized by college scouts.
Why did you choose cross country?
I have never really run cross-country. I was recruited as a sprinter, but due to a coaching change after my sophomore year, all of the 800 runners became members of the cross country team. Last year was more of a transitional year and this is the first season that I am actually running cross country. My primary event, however, still remains the 800.
What was the transition like from running in high school to running for Notre Dame?
Before I came to Notre Dame, Coach Millar (the coach who recruited me and is now at Wake Forest) told me that every meet in college is like the state championship in high school. He was right. At each college meet, there is always great competition.
What are you looking forward to most for this current season?
I am looking forward to building a good base this fall, which will hopefully correlate to running a personal best in the 800 in the spring.
What is your favorite thing about being on Notre Dame’s cross country team?
I love my teammates. The cross country team is like a big family. We all support each other and we always have the best cheering section at meets!.
What is the hardest course you’ve run?
I have only run in two cross-country meets: Valparaiso (2011) and Notre Dame Invite (2010). I guess Valparaiso was a more difficult coach because it is hillier than our home course.
Do you have any race-day rituals?
I eat a peanut butter bagel three or four hours before every race.
What is the best experience you’ve had during your time here at Notre Dame?
I love everything about Notre Dame. It is so hard to pick just one experience. However, what I am most thankful for is my time at Notre Dame is meeting friends that will last a lifetime. All of our time together has been awesome.
Where is your favorite place to be on campus?
The Grotto is definitely my favorite place to be on campus. No matter the time of day, it is the most beautiful and peaceful place on campus.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Texas Roadhouse. Their dinner rolls can’t be beat.
What is your favorite sport outside of running?
Soccer is my favorite sport to play, but basketball is my favorite sport to watch.
Who is your favorite actor?
Will Smith.
What is your favorite movie?
The Lion King. I love Disney movies, and my dad and I have a special bond over the Lion King.
What do you miss most about home when you’re at school?
I miss my family and miss seeing all of my cousin’s little kids. I also miss taking naps on the couch in my basement.
Do you have any advice for incoming runners at Notre Dame?
Make the most of every race and every moment because it goes so fast.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment as a runner here?
Becoming a three-time monogram winner and being a member of the school record setting 4×800 m relay as a sophomore.
Who inspires you the most?
My father.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I hope that I will be in medical school next year.
What will you miss most about being a student at Notre Dame?
Everything. I will miss my friends and teammates, running with others every day, my daily trips to the Grotto, and team dinners at the dining hall, to name a few.
— ND —