Oregon Institute of Technology Athletics

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Heading into the 2020-21 year, 24 student-athletes were named to the Cascade Collegiate Conference Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), representing their schools.
 
Sierra Hazlett is one of the two representatives from Oregon Tech. The senior soccer player left her hometown of Flagstaff, Ariz., to play at OIT and four years later still is glad she made the decision.
 
"The opportunity to play collegiate ball became an opportunity for me at Oregon Tech," said Hazlett. "Soon after my visit to the campus, I fell in love with the educational opportunity I would receive if I chose to attend Oregon Tech. At first, I was timid and scared to leave my hometown. Four years later, I wouldn't trade my decision for the world."
 
The biology health science major wants to be a veterinarian after she graduates from OIT.
 
"Academically, I have had the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a veterinarian," said Hazlett. "I have fallen in love with my degree and I'm so thankful I chose to pursue it at Oregon tech because of the amazing educational opportunity. My favorite class so far has been anatomy with a full human cadaver dissection. Hardest course by far, but so amazing!"

Hazlett loves being able to play soccer, build relationships with her teammates and travel to new places. She also knows what it takes to be a good student-athlete.
 
"Being a student-athlete requires strong time management, sacrifice, determination, accountability, and responsibility," said Hazlett. "It isn't always easy juggling academics with athletics along with social and personal life, but with these qualities it is manageable."
 
Hazlett sees her teammates as influential people in her life.
 
"At my school, I often look to my teammates and friends to keep me going," said Hazlett. "It is a blessing playing on a team sport. On my off days, I have teammates cheering me on and lifting me up when I need it most. And on theirs, I do it for them in return. I look to my teammates to keep pushing me to be my best self."
 
When not out on the field or studying, Hazlett enjoys being outdoors – "camping, hiking, running, kayaking... you name it," said Hazlett. "I also enjoy spending time with friends and family."
 
While COVID-19 has limited some things, Hazlett has chosen to find the positives and is looking forward to things getting back to normal.
 
"Of course, COVID-19 has limited the things I can do on a daily basis like the closure of gyms and restaurants, but I believe it has been a blessing in disguise," said Hazlett. "I have been able to slow down and spend time with friends and family as well as working on myself. Although, I'm excited to get back to normal life with school in person, towns open, and sports resuming."
 
Hazlett is a veteran on the Cascade Collegiate Conference SAAC board and looks to keep being an impact both at OIT and in the CCC.
 
"I hope to be a leader and a voice for those at my school and make an impact on the conference level," said Hazlett.