The first year of college is an exhilarating experience, full of new opportunities and challenges. This sentiment resonates deeply with Cy Rae Campbell, a freshman middle hitter for the Wake Forest volleyball team, who is currently making her mark in Winston-Salem during the 2024-25 academic year. As she approaches the midpoint of her inaugural season, Cy is balancing her academics while gearing up for the final stretch of regular-season play. November is particularly significant for her as it marks National Native American Heritage Month, an occasion that celebrates her cultural identity.
Cy, hailing from Olathe, Kansas, grew up within the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska community. She emphasizes the importance of cultural pride and community support, explaining that Native Americans have always been integral to American culture. Her upbringing in Olathe, with its vibrant community spirit, laid the foundation for her active lifestyle, where sports played a central role.
Her journey in volleyball truly began to take shape at Heritage Christian Academy, where she emerged as one of the nation’s top prospects, earning a state championship each year. Reflecting on her high school experience, Cy highlights that the joy of winning was profoundly connected to the strong camaraderie she shared with her teammates.
When it came to selecting a college, Wake Forest stood out to Cy early in her recruitment process, leading her to commit to the school in July 2022. This transition, moving nearly 1,000 miles from her hometown, has introduced her to a different climate and a welcoming campus atmosphere, which she appreciates for its inclusivity.
On the volleyball court, Cy has embraced the step up to collegiate competition. The pace and physicality of the game have challenged her to adapt and refine her skills further. She acknowledges that studying the game and understanding teammates’ and opponents’ strengths and weaknesses is a crucial aspect of playing at this level.
As she continues to grow both academically and athletically, Cy has set personal goals for herself. She aims to maintain her academic performance while also seeking to forge new friendships as her schedule allows. Additionally, she plans to dedicate time in the offseason for training, believing that real improvement comes from hard work in the weight room.
In summary, Cy Rae Campbell’s first year at college encapsulates the excitement and growth that come with this new chapter in life. As she navigates the demands of academia and athletics, her commitment to personal development and cultural pride positions her for a bright future, both on and off the court. With her determined mindset, she is not just writing her own story but also enriching the community around her.
This journey highlights the transformative experience of college life and the positive impact of sports in building character, resilience, and relationships. As students like Cy embrace these challenges, they not only grow personally but also contribute to a vibrant and diverse campus culture.