Junior
Mazama HS
Klamath Falls, Ore. 

Now a junior, Jessie Klauder is among the top individual talents in Northwest Conference women's swimming. During the past two years, she has competed in two championship finals and four consolation finals at the conference meet.

Describe your family.  How have they helped you in your athletic career?
My family is very loving and supportive. My mom and dad have been married for 26 years and adopted both my older and younger sister and had me biologically. My father and mother always supported my sisters and me in whatever sports we wanted to do. My parents made sure that we didn't get too caught up in the competition but that we remembered that athletics is all about learning qualities to help us succeed in life (e.g., teamwork, perseverance, keeping a positive attitude when losing....).

Describe any hardships or extenuating circumstances that you have faced to get to where you are today.
My mother facing breast cancer and my grandmother being diagnosed with Alzheimer's has definitely had an impact on my life and who I am today. Because of these circumstances I try to enjoy every moment I am giving with my family and friends. I am so thankful that my mother is currently a four-year survivor!

What factors led to your decision to attend PLU?
I attended PLU because of the nursing program, swim team, and financial aid (which made going to college a reality).

What has been your favorite class at PLU?
I have enjoyed so many classes because I have learned so much! My favorite and hardest has been Pathophysiology (I love learning about the human body).

Have you had any trouble balancing athletics with academics?
Tons of trouble because of being tired from swim practice and having to study hard to keep my GPA up to keep my scholarships. However, the secret is great time management and spontaneous outings with friends to keep your stress down.

What are your plans after college?
To work as a nurse in maybe intensive care, emergency room, or pediatrics, and to maybe meet a guy, get married and have a family.

When your athletic career is all said and done, what is it that you would want people to say about you?
That I was a hard worker, gave it my all, was a team player and most of all that I had fun!

Describe your hometown and what you miss about it the most.
My hometown is Klamath Falls, Ore., and it was a small town far from everything. I really don't miss it.

What's your favorite spot on campus?
The pond.

What is your favorite restaurant in Tacoma?
Too many...probably The Melting Pot.

What music is playing in your ipod right now?
Hillsong.