As Stanford's student-athletes have departed campus for home, it's time to get to know the members of the sailing team. Today's edition features Sammy Pickell.
How did you get your start with sailing?
I followed in my brother's footsteps when I was six- he had started sailing sabots at our yacht club's summer program so my parents signed me up too!!
Why did you choose Stanford?
As with most of the other spotlight sailors, I chose Stanford because of the trifecta of beautiful weather, great academics, and impressive athletics! In particular, I really clicked with the sailing team on my visit and how close the team was. I also particularly admired Stanford sailing's ability to consistently perform at a such high level nationally despite all the challenging East coast travel!!
Favorite memory from the team?
My favorite memory so far is the Tahoe ski trip this year. We all know each other's sailing moves pretty well, but it was hilarious to watch everyone shred it up on the slopes. We got to ski as a team, cook dinner as a team, and just enjoy spending time with each other bonding off the water!!
If you weren't on the sailing team, which Stanford team would you join?
Probably ski team or rock climbing team.
How are you spending your time away from campus?
Although it is a bummer to be away from Stanford, it has been a blessing to be home with family! I've enjoyed watching my dogs swim at the beach, celebrating Mother's Day at home, going on outdoor adventures with my dad, and- of course- Zooming the sailing team every week.
How has your Stanford experience helped you manage the COVID-19 situation?
Stanford, both through sailing and academics, has done a great job teaching me how to manage unexpected challenges. COVID-19 is definitely a particularly unprecedented challenge, but I've learned how important it is to work with what you do have and remain optimistic about the future.