Vanessa Davis | Women's Track and Field
Vanessa Davis is a sophomore pole vaulter on the Sun Devil Track and Field team. Vanessa chose ASU over several Ivy League Schools and is majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics. Vanessa has always been very devoted to her academics earning 60+ college credits during High School. She was national ranked in the top-12 for pole vaulters and No. 1 in Arizona in High School. Last season she finished in the top-5 twice in competition and finished 10th at the PAC 12 Outdoor championship. Vanessa enjoys rock climbing, hiking, and playing the piano among other outdoor activities.
Congratulations to Vanessa Davis on being named one of the Student Athletes of the Semester in the fall! #ScholarBaller pic.twitter.com/GuzjCdlaP4
— SunDevilTFXC (@SunDevilTFXC) January 17, 2017
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way?
Having always been a dedicated student-athlete, I seek to exceed expectations and find purpose through perseverance. My desire to have a positive impact on the world we live in is what fuels my ambition. While this is by no means a simple task, a firm commitment to the Sun Devil Way establishes a solid foundation for one to succeed.
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil Family to inspire others to commit to upholding Sun Devils graduate in their own lives?
As humans, we all have different strengths and weaknesses. My advice to the Sun Devil family is to embrace this diversity so that we may learn from one another and innovate, because even the simplest idea can ignite a change in the course of the future.
Nick Ralston | Football
Nick Ralston is a redshirt freshman running back on the Sun Devil football team. Ralston took advantage of increased playing time this season, rushing for 142 yards on 32 carries and scoring two touchdowns. Made the most of his first career carry, taking it 12 yards to the house for his first career score in the opener against NAU. After originally planning to play linebacker at ASU, Ralston has stayed on the offensive side of the ball due to his versatility and athleticism. The Argyle, Texas native is known for his downhill, powerful running style.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way?
I think the Sun Devil Way is crucial to future success. It sets a foundation of principles that allow you to maximize your potential if you live by them. By living the Sun Devil Way, you will see yourself getting better every day in all aspects of life.
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil Family to inspire others to commit to upholding Sun Devils graduate in their own lives?
I would say that if you live the Sun Devil Way, you separate yourself from 99% of the people in the world. You will see yourself living by principles that strengthen your relationships with your friends, teammates, family, and God. All of this makes the world a better place, so why not commit to the Sun Devil Way?
Corey Smith | Football
Corey Smith is a redshirt junior offensive lineman on the Sun Devil football team. Smith has battled through several injuries during his Sun Devil career. Started out as a defensive lineman when he first came to ASU, switching to the offensive side of the ball after the 2015 season. Played in five games last season on special teams and as a reserve offensive lineman. His combination of length and physicality creates disruptions making him an asset on the field goal and extra point blocking units.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way in the classroom?
My family is what motivates to compete with passion on the field and in the classroom. My character and relentless effort exemplifies the Sun Devil Way.
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil family to inspire others to commit to upholding the Sun Devil Way in their own lives?
The advice that I would give to others is the success that you achieve in your life would be determined by similar characteristics as the Sun Devil Way. Upholding the Sun Devil Way will prepare you for your future endeavors.
Mia Rycraw | Water Polo
Mia Rycraw is a redshirt junior from Walnut, California and is majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in African American Studies and Anthropology while pursuing a Minor in Sociology. Mia is also is the starting goalie for the Sun Devil Water Polo team and helped lead the team to an NCAA tournament appearance last season. Rycraw's 66% save percentage in 2016 represents a school single season record. Over the last year, Mia has significantly improved in the classroom, obtaining "Scholar Baller" status for the first time in the Fall of 2015. In order to achieve her academic goals, Mia worked extremely hard with her academic mentor, arriving on time to her sessions and often staying late to finish her assignments. She truly captures the "Relentless" aspect of the Sun Devil Way!
Congratulations to Mia Rycraw, who was named a Student Athlete of the Semester! #ForksUp #ScholarBaller pic.twitter.com/kLNQoltIWb
— ASU Water Polo (@ASUWaterPolo) January 16, 2017
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way in the classroom?
The main thing that motivates me to uphold such a commitment to the Sun Devil Way is the fact that I know that I am capable of doing so. I have learned to do things to the best of my abilities, which means being the best Sun Devil that I can be, as well as being the best version of myself.
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil family to inspire others to commit to upholding the Sun Devil Way in their own lives?
One thing to always remember is to always strive to be the best version of yourself. Do NOT compare yourself to other people, just stay focused on what you have to do and get it done.