Throughout the summer, DartmouthSports.com will be focusing on members of the Class of 2025 who are currently in their "Sophomore Summers" presented by the Norwich Inn.
This installment focuses on
Claire Xu of the women's golf program.
DartmouthSports.com: What have you been doing during your sophomore summer?
Claire Xu: I am currently doing the Tuck Bridge Program and joined Shebalite this summer. Both activities have been helping me in areas I have less experience with. I am excited about the new challenges and growth it will bring!
DS: What is your favorite place on campus?
CX: I really like our campus so it is very difficult for me to choose a favorite spot. I have a very fond memory of skating on Occom Pond during my freshman winter, so Occom holds a special place in my heart.
DS: If you could swap places with one teammate, who would it be and why?
CX: Katherine Sung. I have one of the shortest driving distances on our team. Katherine, on the other hand, has one of the longest driving distances on our team, if not in the league. I would like to experience what it feels like to hit "bombs" down the fairway.
DS: If you could play another sport at Dartmouth, what would it be and why?
CX: Squash. I started learning squash with my friends last year. I'm not the best, but I think it would be a cool sport to be good at. The people I have met that play squash are also one of the most committed people I've seen and their passion makes me curious about the sport.
DS: Outside of sports, what are you most passionate about?
CX: I am a big foodie, so outside of golf, I am passionate about eating good foods and trying new cuisines.
DS: If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
CX: China. I have not been back in five years and I miss my family. I would love to go visit and enjoy the amazing food.
DS: What would be your best advice to your 15-year-old self?
CX: Keep working hard and believing in yourself! You got this!
DS: What was it in the recruiting process that sold you on Dartmouth?
CX: During my junior year of high school, I had the opportunity to chat with Coach Kirk. Among all the coaches I contacted, he was my favorite. Coach Kirk was straightforward and realistic with me throughout the recruiting process, which made me feel at ease and allowed me to be myself. I was also fortunate to have conversations with Coach Parker, who was also very supportive.