Throughout the 2020-2021 year, the Aurora University athletic department will highlight the senior student-athletes. The seniors will provide some insight to their time at AU while getting to know them as individuals they have grown into in their time as a Spartan.
Senior Spotlight: Jessica Ortiz (Women's Soccer)
Major:Â Psychology
  Minors: Spanish and physiology
What are your plans after graduation? After graduation I plan on preparing myself for occupational therapy and obtaining experience in the field.
What is your most memorable/best academic experience at AU? The most memorable academic experience was making the Dean's list spring 2020 after a very stressful semester due to covid-19 and having to transition online.
What is your most memorable athletic moment at AU? Freshman year overall was a very memorable one because we traveled to Texas, we played in the new stadium, and I was part of the all-conference team. I also had the most goals that year compared to sophomore and junior year.
Other than the sport(s) you play, what other sports activity are you good at? I enjoy playing volleyball and lifting.
Outside of sports, what is your favorite hobby or activity? Spending time with family and friends and playing cards.
What is your favorite meal in the cafeteria? Breakfast overall was good especially after morning practices.
What AU faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you and why? Denise Hatcher because she is very motivational and encourages her students to explore new things. I walked out of that class learning many life lessons.
What do you enjoy most and least about practice? I enjoyed the competitiveness there was in practice and finishing practice with a scrimmage. The least enjoyable thing about practice was running suicides and the beep test.
Do you have any pregame rituals? I usually just focus on myself before games. I also roll out before games and have to tie my cleats at least twice before the game starts.
What advice would you give to underclassmen at AU? Enjoy the time you have with current friends and don't be afraid to meet new people. Time goes by really fast when you least expect it.
If you had to listen to one song on repeat forever, what would it be and why? Hard to pick just one song, I would be able to listen to any of the latin pop songs.
What is something that people may not know about you but should? I am easy going and very approachable.
If you could spend an hour each with three people (past or present), who would you choose and why?          Â
- My grandpa (maternal) because I never met him.
- My paternal grandfather because he always manages to make me laugh and is very sincere.
- My mom because she has always been supportive and I know she will be there when I need her.
