Our last Freshman Features focuses on Hailee Hoffman as she reflects on her first quarter at Stanford and the recent start of the 2016 gymnastics season.
Tell us a little about yourself!
My name is Hailee Hoffman and I am from Salt Lake City, Utah. Outside of gymnastics, I love traveling, eating, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
Of what are you most proud?
I am most proud to be on a team with extraordinarily talented athletes and caring staff and coaches, and to be going to a school where the people are incredibly smart and enthusiastic about sharing their experiences and ideas.
L to R: Maxwell, N.Hoffman, Fitzgerald, |
What has been the biggest surprise about Stanford?
The biggest surprise about Stanford has been the class sizes. Most of my classes this quarter had 20 or less students in them, which makes learning the material more personal and getting help a lot easier.
I’ve also been surprised by my dorm, which has been a lot of fun! Since we are all experiencing our first year of college, we help each other out with everything. It's a great support system—we’re like a little family!
What are you thinking of studying? What are your favorite classes so far?
I am not sure what I want to study yet but am considering Human Biology. My favorite class of fall quarter was a photography class where we learned how to use film cameras.
What are some of your goals for this year—gymnastically, academically, personally?
My main goal in the gym this year is to get stronger and recover well from the surgery performed this summer on both my ankles.
Academically, I am hoping to take a wide variety of classes this year so I can figure out what I want to major in!
I am also looking forward to meeting new people on campus as well as making exciting memories with my teammates!
Role model?
One of my role models is my grandmother. She had a hard childhood in Germany, where her father died in the war. She came to America on a boat at age 15 and created a life for herself, all while taking care of a brother with special needs. She is one of the most compassionate and intelligent people I have ever met and I am eternally grateful for her guidance and inspiration.
Favorite book/movie?
I have a lot of favorite movies, but I'd say that three of my top favorites are Stepbrothers, Hot Rod, and Silver Linings Playbook.
Favorite food?
My favorite type of food is food. All of it. Food.
Anything else you want to tell us?
Here are three fun facts about me:
-I've been to New Zealand and China
-I can rap Snoop Dogg
-I have three dogs