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.
Paige Martin, Women's Basketball
Why Stonehill?
I chose Stonehill because of the strong academics and athletics on campus. It was very important to me, when selecting a school, to find a place where academics would challenge me and prepare me for life after college. As soon as I met the coaches and the team, I immediately felt at home. Everyone was so welcoming, and the team and coaching staff truly want the best for you both on and off the court.
How Stonehill has shaped you as a person?
Stonehill has shaped me in so many ways. Before coming here, I was mainly focused on basketball. Once I arrived, I was immediately exposed to new experiences and opportunities that pushed me to grow beyond the court. Stonehill has allowed me to expand my horizons with the full support of the community behind me. It has challenged me, helped me discover new strengths, and taught me valuable life lessons that I will carry with me moving forward.
When I first stepped foot onto the Stonehill campus, I was excited but also a little unsure of myself. I was very focused on basketball and not yet fully aware of all the opportunities college would bring. Now, as a senior, I've grown into a more well-rounded and confident person. I've learned how to balance academics, athletics, and personal growth, while also taking advantage of the experiences Stonehill offers. I've become more resilient, adaptable, and independent. Most importantly, I've gained a deeper understanding of who I am and the values I want to carry forward into life after Stonehill.
Best Moments …
My best athletic moment was when we won our semifinal game at home last year and advanced to the NEC Championship. On top of that, finding out we were eligible for the WNIT made it even more special. It was such a surreal experience to celebrate that accomplishment with my teammates, and it's a memory I will cherish forever.
Academically, my proudest moment was being inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma and learning that I was among the top students in the Business School. That recognition validated all of the hard work I've put into my studies and reminded me of the importance of striving for.
Lessons Learned
Over the last four years, I've learned a lot about my ability to face adversity and overcome challenges. I've also discovered more about who I am outside of being an athlete. Stonehill does a great job of treating athletes as more than just athletes, and that has allowed me to grow in different areas of my life. I've learned that I am resilient, adaptable, and capable of balancing many responsibilities while still finding ways to grow as a person.
Post my Stonehill days, and through my experience as a student-athlete, I will take with me many valuable skills. I've learned the importance and power of communication and collaboration, both on and off the court. I've also come to understand the value of relationships, and I know the connections I've made at Stonehill will last a lifetime. Most importantly, Stonehill has taught me resilience and adaptability—how to adjust and stay focused when faced with challenges. These skills will continue to guide me in my career and in life.
To view the past Senior Reflections visit this site:
2025-2026 Senior Reflections.
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