Those closest to me call me: Kaul or Kauly!
Hometown: Bakersfield, California
What’s the best thing about your hometown?
My hometown was where I was born and raised so when I go back it’s so nice to see familiar faces. It has a small town vibe so everyone, essentially, knows everyone and there is a good sense of community closeness.
Three words to describe you as an athlete:
- Tenacious
- Determined
- Passionate
Pre-race ritual?
Before every race, I pray an athletes' prayer I learned when I was in high school, and thank God for the talent he has given me to glorify Him.
When not in class, in practice, at a game, or traveling, I like to spend my time…
Going to the beach and just relaxing! With the busy schedule of a student-athlete, I take every moment I can get to just breathe. I also love spending time in my bed sleeping!
Favorite place to be off campus:
My favorite place to be off campus is probably Newport. I’m so lucky and blessed to be living in Irvine where the beach is at my fingertips, plus it’s just far enough away from the stresses of campus.
How would you describe the UCI lifestyle?
It is definitely different from Bakersfield. It is much more fast-paced. But, as an athlete, my UCI lifestyle is very hectic and busy with school, practice, and competition. I love it, and I wouldn’t change it for anything!
Favorite class you’ve taken so far, and why?
My favorite are my African American studies courses. They are so eye-opening to the world around us and I have learned so much of what it means to be black in the United States. My AFAM professors are also super awesome so that makes the class worth it!
Major: Sociology with a minor in African American studies
Personal motto/life quote/mantra: I have so many!! But these are my main ones I absolutely live and die by!
- You must always love the process for it is not about the destination, but about the journey.
- Love God and others always!
- If God is with you, than who can stand against you?
Do you have any stand-out volunteer, or community service experiences that you can share?
There are many things I have done volunteer-wise, but none that stand out on a grand level.
What’s your cure for stress?
My cure for stress is going on bike rides, getting lost in a good novel, and spending time with my three best friends, Mia, Lisa and Alexa! I also love praying and I try to put all my stresses in God’s hands.
What makes your team different from other teams?
We have such amazing and crazy energy! There are moments I walk out to practice and listen to my teammates conversation and can’t help but crack up because they say the darnest things.
Best advice you could give to anyone that wanted to compete in track and field at the collegiate level?
This is a really good question…hhmmm…I would have to say there will be moments when things do not go your way such as the way life is but it is important to never give up. Keep striving for your dreams and I promise the rest will take care of itself. When it gets difficult, remember who you are and why you are here or why you compete every day. Be prepared to give your blood, sweat and tears and even more on top of that!
Goals for 2016:
Well my goals are on lockdown right now. Hahaha. But I can tell you that I wish to break 59 seconds in the 400 hurdles. For now, my goals stay between me and the most important people- my coach, my family, and above all, the Lord.
