Finishing the 2018 season with 62 goals and 26 assists, Sarah Reilly ’19 is one of the lacrosse team’s greatest assets. But, instead of talking about what she does for the lacrosse team, she prefers to discuss what lacrosse does for her. “Lacrosse has made me a stronger person and a better leader and teammate,” Sarah says. “And it taught me how to achieve balance in my life.”

Although Sarah had the opportunity to play lacrosse at a number of different universities, she chose Assumption because of its close-knit and supportive community. “Everyone was so nice and welcoming, and it was clear how much the faculty, staff, and coaches care about students,” says Sarah.

Having people around you who want you to succeed and inspire you to be your best every day—that has made all the difference.

“The Assumption community shares the common goal of always striving to do better, whether in academics, sports, or community service,” Sarah continues. “I knew I’d be challenged to be my absolute best here.”

Sarah has accepted the challenge, growing her knowledge, skills, and confidence by assuming prominent leadership roles on campus. As president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), she advocates for the needs of students on all of Assumption’s sport teams. She also co-founded a mentorship program, I AM Mentor, which pairs incoming student-athletes with veteran student-athletes who help them navigate life as a Greyhound.

Sarah has challenged herself off campus, too, by completing three internships in just four years. She worked as a marketing intern for Subway and CareMount Medical, and as a group sales intern at Guardian Life—which enabled her to live and work for a summer in New York City. “It was the best summer of my life,” says Sarah. “I worked directly with sales representatives and was able to ask them questions about their career paths. And I discovered how much I enjoy forming relationships with clients.”

Her love of relationship building is no surprise, considering how much value she places on the relationships she’s forged at Assumption. “Having people around you who want you to succeed and inspire you to be your best every day—that has made all the difference,” says Sarah. “I no longer underestimate myself.”