Mia Soerensen is a junior opposite hitter on the UTSA Volleyball team. She had an outstanding 2023 season being named to the All-American Athletic Conference Second Team after leading UTSA in points (386) and kills (337). Mia also excels off the court with her studies as a neuroscience major. She is currently studying with Semmes Foundation Distinguished Chair in Cell Biology, Jenny Hsieh.
As you can imagine, Mia is extremely busy but she took some time out of her schedule to answer a few questions for the Runners Rising Project.
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RRP: Where were you born and where did you grow up?
Mia: I was born in Hamburg, Germany and I grew up in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
RRP: You were very successful at Kent State. What are some of the reasons you chose to transfer to UTSA?
Mia: For my development as a person and most importantly an athlete I chose to transfer.
RRP: Who’s your favorite player or someone you try to model your game after?
Mia: My favorite player is Kathryn Plumber!
RRP: How are you spending your winter break? Traveling anywhere exciting that you’re willing to share?
Mia: I am spending winter break in Pennsylvania with my family, later in December I am planning on visiting New York!
RRP: How has it been playing under Coach Carol?
Mia: Playing under Coach Carol has been amazing for my development as an athlete. For example, last semester she challenged me to expand my range as an attacker, and this semester we will continue to work on more skills. In addition, Coach Carol is incredibly supportive of my endeavors academically!
RRP: What personal or team goals do you have for yourself or the team this offseason?
Mia: My personal goals are similar to the goals of the team this semester which are to keep working hard in the weightroom and pushing each other on the court to become 1% better everyday.
RRP: Do you have any superstitions or pre game routines you have to do to feel ready to play?
Mia: I wouldn’t say I am superstitious but I like to wear my hair the same for games!
RRP: Do you have a favorite quote? If so, what is it and by whom?
Mia: I can’t find who said this quote but it is, “Your life is only as good as your mindset.”
RRP: Do you have a mentor? If so, who is it and what’s the most important thing you’ve learned from them?
Mia: My mentor in life is my mom! The most important thing I have learned from my mom is to set your mind onto something and stay fiercely determined in your pursuit of it.
RRP: The UTSA student athlete culture seems great, almost like a family, what has your experience been like? Do you interact with other student athletes from other sports?
Mia: I would agree! The culture within UTSA athletics feels like a family and all of the athletes I have met have been so kind!
