Junior multi-event athlete Keia Pinnick is on the verge of qualifying for the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships and will look to accomplish that goal at the Last Chance meets this weekend.
The State Press caught up with Pinnick to ask her about her appearance on national television and her Olympic dreams.
The State Press: How did your childhood make you the person you are today?
Keia Pinnick: It was kind of tough. I had a lot of stuff to deal with, but despite everything, I was given advantages that I wouldn't have gotten if I hadn’t been adopted. I take advantage of the opportunities I have.
SP: You were recently featured on the nationally syndicated television show, “The Real Winning Edge.” How was the experience?
KP: It was a nice experience, especially to be a role model for people potentially in the same situation. It was good to show them that there isn't a dead end.
SP: How was your high school experience?
KP: High school was a getaway and when I had the most freedom being with my friends and everything. They were pretty happy and fun times. Being able to compete was also good.
SP: Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life up to this point?
KP: I have a lot of inspirations. I'm not sure I have one in particular because there have been a lot of people in my life who have helped me do a lot of things, especially my club coaches and best friends.
SP: Why did you decide to come to ASU?
KP: I love the weather out here and ASU has a championship team.
SP: What do you like most about ASU?
KP: I love the college experience at ASU. I could have been like other people in my situation and not have experienced this at all, so I love it all.
SP: What is the biggest thing your time at ASU has taught you?
KP: I've learned to become independent at ASU. When I was adopted, my parents pretty much did everything for me. When I got here, I had to learn to become independent and I did.
SP: Do you have Olympics dreams and aspirations?
KP: This year, I plan on going to the Olympic Trials just to have the experience with the top people, but in 2016, I plan on being in there.
SP: What are your plans for the future?
KP: Besides running professionally, I want to possibly become a social worker and help families and kids.
Reach the reporter at dsshapi1@asu.edu
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