Jan. 28, 2010

University of Pittsburgh women's tennis freshmen Gabi Catanzariti and Karma Parbhu talk about how to survive your freshman year and what they miss most from home below.

The women's tennis team opens up its spring schedule on Feb. 6 at the University of Maryland. Match time is set for 11 a.m. in College Park.

What is your favorite thing about being a student athlete?
[Gabi] Playing a sport forces me to be a good time manager and helps me structure my schedule. [Karma] All the friends I’ve made.

What is your favorite stress reliever after a long day of practice?
[Gabi] Watch TV, listen to music, and talk with friends.
[Karma] Relaxing with my mates.

What’s the one home-cooked meal you miss the most?
[Gabi] May dad’s pancakes
[Karma] My mom’s baked goods.

What’s your favorite place to eat on campus? Why?
[Gabi] Lulu’s noodles because I like their bubble tea.
[Karma] Einstein’s, I love their food.

How was the transition from living at home to living at school? Do you visit often?
[Gabi] The transition was easy because I live here in Pittsburgh, and I go home as often as I can
[Karma] Not too bad, I don’t get to visit often because Nebraska is far.

Name one thing that surprised you most about the college experience?
[Gabi] Getting the best roommate ever.
[Karma] How hard it is to wake up for class.

What is your favorite thing about the city of Pittsburgh? Why?
[Gabi] Pittsburgh’s sports teams (especially the Penguins) because they are a lot of fun to watch.
[Karma] It’s pretty easy to get around.

As a freshman, how do you balance class, study hours, and practice?
[Gabi] By keeping organized and planning things on a regular basis.
[Karma] Time management and using my planner and all the resources available to me.

What’s your favorite sport to play besides tennis?
[Gabi] Bowling
[Karma] Soccer