Carina Napoleon grew up dreaming of being a Buckeye. Living only 15 minutes away from campus most of her life, she wanted to take the time to evaluate her options and make sure OSU was truly right for her. Her inside scoop on campus life and the Columbus region led her to eventually commit to The Ohio State University.
Carina is a decorated mid-distance runner from Thomas Worthington. She has an indoor state title and a PR of 2:10.25 in the 800m. She also has a 1600m mark of 4:56.64. She has had many appearances at Nationals and plays a key role on her cross country team as well with a 5K PR of 18:12.70.
We caught up with Carina for an insider on her decision to bring her talents to OSU!
What factors were you looking for in a school?
At first I was asking overly generalized questions until I realized every school believed they have a great team environment, culture, and coaches who care. I found I needed to find a team where I could grow personally and be a part of a culture of champions. I was also looking for a strong business school and a place where I could find a church community as well.
What ultimately led you to OSU?
Ever since I was a little girl I always wanted to be a Buckeye. I really wanted to focus on looking at other schools and make sure I wasn't missing anything. After our track season was cancelled, I had a lot of time to slow down and think about where I could really grow as a person, a runner, and overall where I would be happiest no matter the circumstances and for me that was nowhere but Ohio State.
What events do you see yourself running?
I fall into the mid distance category, so I look forward to the 800/1500 and helping on relays! A big thing for me was being part of the cross country team to help contribute there as well.
How do you feel COVID affected your recruiting process?
I was definitely lucky because my sister runs for OSU. I have known the coaches for a few years and have hung out with the girls before. It was a bummer not to have official visits, but it also gave me a lot of time to really slow down and make the best decision for myself.
One piece of advice you would give to other athletes going through recruiting?
My best advice I could give is to be patient with coaches and yourself on making a decision because it's never going to be perfect and everyone's recruiting is going to look a little different. You will know when you have found the school for you.
What are some goals for this cross country season?
Outside of team goals, my biggest goal right now is to be under 18 minutes in the 5k. I am really excited for the season and to have all the hard work I put in during the off season pay off!
