WASHINGTON (April 26, 2023) – Howard University sophomore Media, Journalism, and Film major, Spanish minor Sareyah Rudd caught up with graduate student Ana Williams (Baker, La.) for a quick Q and A session.
 
Q: What is your favorite part about volleyball?
A: The constant movement and high intensity of play are two of my favorite aspects of volleyball. Also, developing friendships with teammates along the way.
 
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: After graduation, my plans are multi-faceted as I will complete one part by obtaining my master's in public health in May. Secondly, possibly, pursue a career in Public Health in the government sector and/or enroll in Physical Therapy School.
 
Q: Why did you choose Howard?
A: The culture at Howard University just motivates you and that was a major factor in my decision to attend. Also, my parents and other members of my family attended HBCUs and I wanted to continue that legacy.
 
Q: What is one important lesson you have learned from your coach?
A: The most important lesson learned from my coach has been learning not to overthink matters. Often, during practices and games, I would be too consumed with overthinking rather than allowing things to flow. When I was finally able to stop overthinking and just relax, everything became a lot simpler and the flow of the game just seemed to happen naturally.
 
Q: Who would you like to thank for your experience?
A: There are several people with whom I would like to thank for my wonderful Howard experience. First and foremost are my parents for putting me in positions to excel and always encouraging me to strive for excellence. Secondly, is Howard's coaching staff for believing and giving me an opportunity to be a Bison. Lastly, a combination of instructors and teammates who encouraged, motivated and challenged me. I am truly grateful for my college experience!
 
Q: As a graduate student, what would you describe as the biggest differences between your graduate and undergraduate experiences?
A: The biggest difference between my graduate experience versus my undergraduate experience has primarily been adjusting my class schedule with maintaining all student-athlete requirements. As an undergraduate, I could organize my schedule with ease to accommodate my time to meet both academic and team related functions; however, while in graduate school, juggling both graduate requirements and all volleyball related activities became a little more challenging due to the intensity of the program and completing my capstone.
 
Q: How and when did you start volleyball?
A: I started playing volleyball in sixth grade. My mom signed me up for LSU volleyball camp one summer and that is when I fell in love with the game. Those volleyball camps were the catalyst for me loving the sport and wanting to pursue playing in college.
 
Q: How do you spend your free time?
A: When I have some spare time, I often like to hang out with friends, watch a series or two on Netflix, go shopping or try a new recipe in the kitchen.
 
Q: Who is/was the most significant influence in your life (sports and non-sports related)?
A: My parents because they have been there for me and shown their support. I do not know what I would have done without them!
 
Q: What advice would you give future Bison?
A: The piece of advice that I would provide to a future Bison is to seize (carpe diem) any chance that presents itself during their time at Howard. This is the time to challenge your physicality, sharpen your mind and expand your pursuits. You do not want to be in a position where you can look back and wish you had done something.
 
About Williams:

• Personal:
  • Hometown: Baker, La.
  • Major/ Degree:
    • Masters - Public Health
    • Bachelor's Human Performance Concentration: Sports Medicine
      • Minor Psychology
• Athletic Achievements at Howard:
  • Member of the 2019 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) champion
  • Selected MEAC Defensive Specialist of the Week (Feb 20, 2021)
• Academic Achievements at Howard:
  • 4x-MEAC Commissioner's All-Academic Team (2019, 2020, 2021, & 2022)

 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.