Aria Brusch traded in the city life of Cincinnati for the college town feel of Auburn, knowing this was what she needed. The 5-2 freshman is expected to be a contributor from the start this season and is ready for that role.
Q: If you were stranded on an island with three teammates who would you choose?
A: "Kendal [Moss] because she's organized, Gracie [Day] because she would give us something to laugh about, and Cassie [Stevens] because she would bring me."
Q: What's your favorite Auburn tradition?
A: "I think rolling the trees is a super awesome tradition because it's different and no one else really does it. It is individual to Auburn."
Q: Why did you choose Auburn for gymnastics?
A: "I really love the coaches and coaching style here. I didn't think other places were what I needed, and Auburn was what I needed."
Q: If you could have dinner with a famous person, who would it be?
A: "I would eat with Natalie Portman. She's super cool."
Q: What is your favorite vacation you've been on?
A: "I went to Jamaica last October and the water was so pretty and clear there."
Q: What are your goals this season as an individual and for the team?
A: "For the team, definitely competing all-around. For individual, a national title. Definitely just being there for the team and being able to contribute is what I want."
Q: What's your favorite ice cream?
A: "Strawberry ice cream is my favorite."
Q: What's your major and what do you want to do with it?
A: "My major is psychology and I want to do forensic psychology and profile people."
Q: Who's your biggest role model?
A: "The girls in the gym that have gone to college before me and are good friends with me. Girls that I can look up to. There's not just one person, but a lot that I can call my role models."
Q: What do you do before a meet to prepare?
A: "I make sure I get a good night's rest and wake up and eat enough to make sure I am awake."
Q: What's your favorite event during a meet?
A: "During a meet I probably like bars the most because in the gym it can be pretty monotonous, but it's a lot different in competition. You get more energy and it's a more amplified feeling."
Q: What's the hardest event during a meet for you?
A: "For me it's vault because I tend to overthink it and get ahead of myself."
Q: If you could give a message to the Auburn Family, what would it be?
A: "I am excited to be here and see everyone cheer us on in the meets."