EASTON, Mass. – The 2025-2026 Senior Reflections is a series of annual collections. Senior representatives of teams at Stonehill have been invited to contribute and reflect on their personal experiences over their four-year careers at Stonehill - both on and off the playing surface. 

Jordan Malloy, Women's Cross Country

Why Stonehill?
When I was exploring colleges, I was not just looking for a place to further my education, I was searching for a place where I felt supported by my coaches and professors. Stonehill stood out as a place I could call home, and where I knew I could succeed with my academic and athletic goals.

I remember from my first visit just how beautiful the campus was and still is today. I continue to have genuine connections between my teammates and coaches throughout my college career, and I feel I have grown both academically and personally. The balance between athletics and a strong education was exactly what I was looking for, and Stonehill was able to offer that. Stonehill is not just about the facilities and programs, it is my teammates and the values we share that make this college so unique and special to me.

How has Stonehill shaped you as a person?
The challenges I have faced, both academically and athletically, have pushed me to be more resilient and disciplined. I found a deeper sense of purpose at Stonehill. I have learned how to lead, how to listen better, and how to show up for others even when things get tough.

Stonehill also helped me find my voice, not just as a student-athlete but as someone who wants to make a meaningful impact and contribution to the team even once I graduate. The relationships I have built here, with my teammates/best friends, coaches, and professors, have truly shaped my character in so many positive ways. They have helped me become someone who is more confident, grounded, and ready for whatever comes next.

What type of person were you when you first stepped foot onto the Stonehill campus and the type of person you are today as a senior?
When I first stepped foot onto the Stonehill campus, I was excited but very unsure of myself and feeling eager to try and prove myself to my coaches and professors. I have always had a strong work ethic and a love for my sport, but I was still learning how to balance the demands of being a student-athlete.

Now, I am much better at advocating for myself and am better at navigating challenges with more confidence and independence. Looking back, I can see how much I have grown. I have realized one of my strengths is leading by example, supporting others, and staying focused even when things do not go as planned. I am proud of the person I have become, and I know that the many experiences I have had here, whether good or bad, will shape me in lasting ways.

What has been your best moment at Stonehill, both athletically and academically?
Athletically, my best moment at Stonehill was winning the DMR (Distance Medley Relay), mile, and 3k at the 2025 NEC Indoor Track Championships. This moment really reminded me why I love this sport and how far I have come. That experience was not just about the wins, but the preparation, the perseverance, and the pride of representing Stonehill with everything I had.

It is challenging for me to think of one moment academically that has been my best, but I am proud of how much more confidence I have gained with public speaking. Whether it was presenting research, earning recognition, or simply improving in a subject I have always struggled with (math), it showed me how much I can grow if I simply believe in myself and am kind when I make mistakes. These moments not only give me confidence in my academic abilities, but in my capacity to think critically and contribute as meaningfully as I can.

Lessons Learned
Over the past four years at Stonehill, I have truly learned my capabilities and how important growth is. I grew by pushing myself out of my comfort zone, staying committed despite any adversity, and showing up and bringing my best self even when things get hard.

As a student-athlete, I have developed strong time management and organizational skills. Balancing practice, meets, and academics have taught me how to prioritize and stay disciplined. I have learned how to lead and be part of a team, skills that are essential in any professional setting. I have also gained a deeper understanding of accountability – knowing that my actions affect not just myself, but those around me.
 
To view the past Senior Reflections visit this site: 2025-2026 Senior Reflections. 

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