Aurora University Athletics

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: Imani Freeman (Women's Volleyball)
Major: Criminal Justice
What are your plans after graduation? I plan on going to graduate school along with continuing my part time job. My goal is to work for DCFS or the corrections department.
What is your most memorable/best academic experience at AU? My most memorable academic experience was during my sophomore year at AU. I took many rigorous courses but my favorite course was Faith on Film. There is a thin line between religion and science. I learned the difference between the two that year.
What is your most memorable athletic moment at AU? My most memorable athletic experience was saying good-bye, to four seniors, my sophomore year. Unfortunately, you cannot stay at AU forever, which forced me to say good-bye to Emily Lines, Hanna Lanasa, Katie Vondra, and Nikki Lofshult. I remember the feeling of great athletes and leadership leaving this program, but the feeling of new leadership overwhelmed me. This experience took place in Pittsburgh during the NCAA Championships.
Other than the sport(s) you play, what other sports activity are you good at? I am good at any sport. If I try and commit my time and skills to one subject then I will be successful.
Outside of sports, what is your favorite hobby or activity? My favorite hobby outside of sports is to travel or to go fishing.
What is your favorite meal in the cafeteria? Although this dish was discontinued, stir fry was my favorite meal served in the cafeteria.
What AU faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you and why? James Seitelman has had the greatest impact on me. He made me understand what it meant to be an individual. He made a personal connection with me outside of what happens in the gym. I feel that it is important, to Coach Seitelman, that you do not lose yourself in college or in life. A couple of days ago he told me to "strive higher." I was really upset that he told me what needed to be said. He has always been there for me and has always overly communicated with me. He truly does want the best for his girls! Coach Seitelman has helped me sprout in many ways.
What do you enjoy most and least about practice? I enjoy scrimmaging during practice, but I do not enjoy ball control drills.
Do you have any pregame rituals? My pregame rituals include: scouting the other team, saying a prayer, calling my mother, and telling myself to "be myself and do your best."
What advice would you give to underclassmen at AU? Believe in your own abilities. College is tough but you can finish. Do not give up because matters are going to get better. Contact your advisors and professors as much as you need because they are available to assist you. Take advantage of AU's student to teacher ratio. This is the perfect private university for young adults to focus on what is important.
If you had to listen to one song on repeat forever, what would it be and why? I would listen to "Count on You" by: Tink. Can I count on you? I love this song because the theme is loyalty.
What is something that people may not know about you but should? People should know that I prefer a phone call over a text message.
If you could spend an hour each with three people (past or present), who would you choose and why? I would spend an hour with my mother because of her wisdom. I would spend an hour with my late grandfather because of his great stories about fishing. I would spend an hour, maybe even two, with my great grandmother because of her dementia.