Hollis Viray, Women's Swimming and Diving

Junior Hollis Viray is a native of Glastonbury, Conn. One of the leaders of the women's swimming and diving team, she broke one of the program's oldest records as a sophomore, the 400-yard individual medley.

1) What has been the highlight of your athletic career so far?

The highlight of my athletic career was when I qualified for the finals of the 200 breastroke and swam in the championship heat at the ECAC championships. I ended up placing eighth which was amazing considering I was racing against Division I swimmers. I was the fastest Division III swimmer in the event.

2) What makes your team special?

Our team is special because we are more than teammates, we are a family. We all instantly clicked when we came on campus and are each other’s number one support in and out of the pool. I know I can turn to any one of my team members at any time.

3) How do your experiences on the court translate to the class room/world?

Being a varsity athlete has helped me focus in the classroom. The mental preparation techniques I learned to use before a big race definitely apply to my schoolwork. It helps me formulate a clear goal of what I want to accomplish and execute it to the best of my ability. The more I can focus on a goal, the less stressed I feel and the more I can take on.

4) What is your favorite class and why?

One of my favorite classes I have taken was a Spanish conversation class taught by Mariya Kireyeva. Although the class itself was interesting, what I really liked was the semester long community service project assigned in it. Each student in the class was paired with a member of the Waltham community who immigrated from a Spanish speaking country. I met weekly with my partner and taught him English while he taught me Spanish. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I became good friends with the man I was partnered with, and we continued to meet outside of the projects requirements.

5) What is your favorite non-athletic activity at Brandeis and why?

I love dancing. One of my favorite things to do is to go to this dance-aerobics class called “FUNK.” I go with my friends, and we learn a dance routine and just have a good time. I go every week when I can.

6) What are your aspirations after Brandeis?

After Brandeis I plan on attending medical school. I’m not sure exactly what kind of doctor I want to become yet, but I am really interested in DNA and the molecular causes of disease.

7) What is something surprising we might not know about you?

Most swimmers work as lifeguards and translate their skills in the water into a job. I’ve actually never even tried to become certified. I love being in the water, but I never wanted to spend anymore time at the pool than I already do. Once my practice session is over I can’t wait to get out and do something different!