The excitement of starting college is a defining moment for many young adults, as they enter a new phase of independence filled with opportunities and challenges. First-year students often arrive with high hopes and ambitions, ready to embark on this transformative journey.
Cy Rae Campbell, a freshman middle hitter on the Wake Forest volleyball team, embodies this spirit as she settles into her new life in Winston-Salem for the 2024-25 academic year. Currently in the midst of her inaugural season, Cy is balancing academic responsibilities with the demands of competitive collegiate volleyball, all while embracing the significance of National Native American Heritage Month in November.
For Cy, who hails from Olathe, Kansas, this month is particularly meaningful. She views it as an opportunity to celebrate the past, present, and future of her community, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and unity among Native Americans. Cy reflects on her upbringing in Olathe, noting the close-knit environment she grew up in, which fostered a strong sense of family and community among members of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.
Her journey to Wake Forest has been marked by significant athletic achievements. At Heritage Christian Academy, Cy emerged as a top national prospect, earning distinctions as the best player in her position in Kansas, while securing state championships throughout her high school career. The camaraderie she developed with her teammates remains one of her fondest memories.
Choosing Wake Forest was an early decision for Cy, who committed to the program in July 2022, even before her junior year. Transitioning nearly 1,000 miles from her hometown, she experienced firsthand the differences between the Midwest and East Coast, with a warmer climate but a deeper appreciation for the evolving campus culture focused on inclusiveness and the Pro Humanitate motto.
As she navigates the rigors of collegiate volleyball, Cy recognizes the heightened level of competition compared to high school. She is adapting to the faster pace of the game and the need for deeper strategy and analysis. With ten final matches in the ACC slate ahead, her focus remains on growing as a player and a student.
Looking forward, Cy has clear personal goals. She aims to keep up with her academic commitments and build friendships outside of her busy sports schedule. Additionally, she plans to dedicate time to her training during the offseason, understanding that this is when significant improvements can be made.
Cy Rae Campbell’s journey is a testament to the resilience and ambition of students, especially those who bring their unique backgrounds and experiences to the collegiate stage. As she continues to grow personally and athletically, her story inspires others navigating their first year of college, serving as a reminder that this chapter is just the beginning of a remarkable journey.