Bio
Name: Laura Howell
Hometown (High School): Murfreesboro, TN; Siegel HS
Year: Class of 2025
Sport: Women’s Volleyball
Major(s):
1) General Biology
2) HPPE: Exercise Science
Why did you choose to be a NAIA athlete?
COVID-19 struck my junior year of high school, which for those that know, is prime recruiting year. After applying to colleges solely to be a student, Martin Methodist reached out to my travel ball director curious about setters. I visited Pulaski and fell in love with the atmosphere. Although I didn’t choose MMC for the NAIA conference, I have learned to appreciate the competition and schedule to allow me to excel both on the court and in the classroom.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
I have been an athlete almost all my life. Just like every little girl, it began on the softball field. I learned integrity, drive, and sportsmanship which allowed for an easier transition into the sport I love; volleyball. In the past decade, my life has seemed to revolve around volleyball. The greatest lesson I have learned during this time is my worth does not just come from the things I do on the court. I can respectfully see my growth and knowledge applied in the two biggest environments in my life.
If you have been involved in community service, which project was the most rewarding?
Special Olympics will always hold a precious spot in my heart. In sixth grade, I was able to become a peer helper in the special education classroom. I met the kindest, most compassionate humans I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I continued this elective through high school and this coming spring, I will volunteer for the 10th year in a row for the Special Olympics. Surrounding myself with pure positivity and cheering on those who never get a deserved round of applause has had the greatest impact on my view of the world for the better.
When you were growing up, what did you want to be?
I was not sheltered when it came to crime shows growing up. During dinner, Mom, Dad, and I would watch NCIS, Law and Order: SVU, Forensic Files, and the First 48. There are some gory scenes that the average 7-year-old would turn and snarl from, but I heavily enjoyed the medical scenes and took a kind liking to Ducky, the forensic pathologist in NCIS. From then on, my love for healthcare has only flourished, and my dream career was to become a forensic pathologist, performing autopsies for a state department investigations team.
What is your fantasy job/ career?
If I could do anything, my fantasy career would be a Google Maps driver. I love travelling and would love to document the British Isles or Carribean islands!
What is your favorite...
Spot on campus? East Campus Pond
Class? Stretching
Movie? My Friend Dahmer
Food? Pickles
Holiday? Halloween
TV Show? Pretty Little Liars
Sports Team? Georgia Bulldogs
Professional Athlete? Lauren Carlini
Quote? “For I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14
What is your greatest sports moment?
Beating the number 1 team in TSSAA, Brentwood, my senior year of high school.
What is your most prized possession?
A box of letters from my dad when he was away on business trips. He never failed to let me know he was constantly thinking of me, even when he wasn’t home.
A non-athletic talent you have?
Sing the ABC’s backwards, name the US Presidents in order
The best sporting event you have ever attended?
UGA football game against Auburn
How would your teammates describe you?
- “Straightforward.” -Sophia Ortega
- “Independent.” -Hannah Oliver
- “Driven/Locked In” -Morgan Avrit
- “Strong.” -Kaylie Moody
- “Fierce.” -Izzy Garza
- “Hardworking.” -Michelle Rutledge
Do you have any pregame rituals?
Blast Megan Thee Stallion
Your worst habit:
Starting my day by looking at my phone