Firebird Spotlight - Shayna Hodge, Women's Cross Country and Track & Field

UDC Life

Shayna is a senior English major from Glen Dale, Maryland.  She selected the University of the District of Columbia because of its proximity to home, yet at the same time providing an opportunity to be on her own.  While familiar with the area, Shayna appreciates the exposure to different people and cultures here at UDC. 

Post-Graduation Plans

Following graduation, Shayna would like to pursue graduate studies in mass communication, ultimately writing for television or a newspaper.  Shayna is currently interning with the Department of Justice in Human Resources.  While studying at the University, Shayna especially enjoyed Dr. LaTanya Rogers’ course Neo Narratives, about African American slaves.

Childhood

The fourth of 5 children in her family, Shayna started running at age eight; however, when selected to run in a relay as a child, she stopped running for fear she would drop the baton.  Fortunately, she resumed her athletic career at the age of 14 and has been running well ever since.  Shayna comes from an active family - her mother played volleyball, was a cheerleader and ran track, and her father is a former Firebird football student-athlete!

Interests

Because she is “busy all the time,” Shayna enjoys relaxation watching Net Flicks, listening to music and spending time with friends.  “A good burger and nachos make my day,” she laughed.

Meet Preparation

Before competition Shayna prays that she will do well.  The quote “the faster I run, the faster I’m done,” stays on her mind.  She indicated she runs as hard as she can to improve her times.  Shayna said one of her greatest track memory came when the team ran at the New York Armory where the races were televised.  “That was pretty cool,” she said.

Advice for Student-Athletes

Shayna advised students: “Always have confidence.  You can’t progress or evolve if you beat yourself up.  Learn from mistakes and move on.  Confidence is key.”

Quote from Coach Joel Phillip

“Shayna is one of the hardest working student-athletes I have coached. This is a characteristic she has not only with Cross Country or Track, but also with her academics. Shayna is also very mature. Even though she may be one of the quietest student-athletes I have coached, the respect she shows and the way she communicates make her very easy to coach. I see her as an excellent role model for our freshmen student-athletes.”