February 2008 Student-Athletes of the Month

*The Student-Athletes of the Month are selected on the basis of the all-around student-athlete...effort and excellence in academics, leadership, integrity, dedication to team, campus involvement, community service, and the ability to serve as role models for current and future VU students and student-athletes.

February 2008

Michele Slotke - Lacrosse

Senior, Majors: Human and Organizational Development, European Studies; Minor: Political Science

Why did you choose to attend Vanderbilt?
I choose Vanderbilt because when I came to visit I loved the team and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Also, I think Vanderbilt is the perfect combination of both great athletics and academics, which is exactly what I was looking for in a school.

What are your career goals?
I am taking the LSATs this month and eventually plan on going to law school. I am currently really interested in international and comparative law, so I could see myself doing something in that area.

What does it take to be academically successful at Vanderbilt?
Prioritizing and time management are the two most important skills because there obviously isn't always time to get everything done. I think you also have to be motivated to work hard because Vanderbilt is always getting academically more competitive.

How do you manage your demanding schedule?
I've always had a full schedule with school and sports, like most athletes have, so I actually prefer having a busy schedule. I consider myself a compulsive scheduler and list-maker, so I think those two things help me keep everything together.

What is your ritual before taking a test?
I tend to get up early and give myself time to go over my review sheets one last time. I also typically drink Starbucks the morning before a test. Something about the excessive amounts of caffeine just makes me feel smarter.

What is your favorite quote?
"When you are passionate, you always have your destination in sight and you are not distracted by obstacles. Because you love what you are pursuing, things like rejection and setbacks will not hinder you in your pursuit. You belive that nothing can stop you." --Coach K

Why Michele is a Student-Athlete of the Month . . .
Michele is a person of incredible responsibility, integrity and perseverance. She takes great pride in all her endeavors; always challenging herself, striving for excellence and never taking the easy road. Despite being a starter her entire career, she has had to work assiduously in the training room in an effort to overcome numerous injuries. She is scheduled to graduate this May with high honors, a double major in H&OD and European Studies and a minor in Political Science. The future looks bright for Michele and I wish her all the best. --Shawn Fagan

George Smith - Football

Why did you choose to attend Vanderbilt?
To get the Best of Both Worlds: the SEC and a great education.

What are your career goals?
NFL or U.S. Marshal.

What does it take to be academically successful at Vanderbilt?
Great time management.

How do you manage your demanding schedule?
I keep a good organized calendar.

What is your ritual before taking a test?
I try to get a lot of sleep.

What is your favorite quote?
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -- Mahatma Gandhi

Why George is a Student-Athlete of the Month . . .
George is one of the finest young men I know. Since arriving at Vanderbilt, he has fought through a devastating illness as well as a serious injury, and come out a better person. He takes nothing for granted. His optimism, enthusiasm, and appreciation for life are inspiring. He had his best college football season ever this past fall, surpassed only by his stellar performance in the classroom. We have all learned a lot from George and benefited from his presence on our campus. --Elizabeth Wright

Past Recipients...

January 2005

Academic Support for Student-Athletes | Vanderbilt University
Department of Student Athletics | 2601 Jess Neely Drive | Nashville, TN 37212
Phone (615) 343-0444