WASHINGTON (June 12, 2024) – Howard University Department of Athletics continued its senior spotlight series, featuring rising senior journalism major Sareyah Rudd catching up with Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Champion Kendall Smith (Chicago) from the women's volleyball team.
 
Q: What has been your driving force throughout your academic and athletic career?
A: I would say my driving forces are to make my family and myself proud. Honestly, just enjoy life and what brings you joy because being at Howard brings expectations like immense pressure to be perfect. But it's really about putting my best foot forward and I have driven myself to be the best version of me.
 
Q: Who is your biggest sports inspiration?
A: My biggest inspiration would be my parents because seeing how hard they worked to get where they are today is very inspiring and pushes me to keep going regardless of the circumstances. I really look up to them because they have been a huge guiding light for me throughout my entire life. They have always push me to stand for integrity and have been extremely successful in life. That is why they are my biggest inspiration.
 
Q: What has been your favorite volleyball memory at Howard?
A: Honestly, I would have to say my favorite memory is just laughing at practice or in the locker room because that is where all the fun stuff happens. I am going to miss those times.
 
Also, I definitely would say there are a few big wins in there like defeating Delaware State at the MEAC Tournament and Norfolk State on Senior Night.
 
Q: If you were not competing in volleyball, what sport would you play?
A: If I was not competing in volleyball, I would be doing track because I ran track for six years during grade school. It was a sport I really loved but volleyball was a lot more of a team sport because track focuses a little bit more on individual success. That is why I chose volleyball.
 
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: After graduation, I will be working in New York City with Citibank, doing corporate investment banking as a corporate investment banking analyst.
 
Q: What will you miss most about Howard?
A: The things I will miss most about Howard are the people, like my amazing teammates, friends and line sisters, along with professors and administrators. Howard is a huge family culture and they will forever be my family.
 
Q: What message would you give to your freshman-year self?
A: The message I would give to my freshman self is that everything will work out because there has definitely been some highs and lows during my time at Howard. Everything will be okay and just continue to push myself and trust in God.
 
Q: What makes your team special?
A: I would say what makes our team special is team chemistry. We get along together, which makes it really easy on the court. We have a true love for each other because those are my sisters and they have my back. Just having that foundation is what really makes a special team.
 
Q: What message would you leave for the rest of your team?
A: The message is to cherish their time at Howard, especially on the volleyball team. There is always going to be highs and lows, but do not take anything for granted and make the most of everything.
 
Also, study hard off the court and give your all in every practice.
 
Just enjoy your experience, take it one day at a time and live in the moment.
 
About Smith:

• Personal:
  • Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
  • Major: Finance/Marketing
• Academic Achievements at Howard:
  • MEAC Commissioner's All-Academic Team
  • MEAC Volleyball All-Academic Team
• Athletic Achievements at Howard:
  • MEAC Champion

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