Mia Schubert, Shaler Area High School class of 2022, is an accomplished athlete and is currently pursuing her degree in Business Analytics and Data Science from Juniata College. She notes, “I started college in a general business track, but then took a data science course specifically because I enjoy math and working with numbers (Thanks to Paul Stadelman!). I absolutely loved that class, so I declared a major that included more coding, analytics, and data science courses. I really enjoy using different programming platforms to organize, manipulate, and analyze data to help inform business decisions.”
Schubert is an integral member of the volleyball team at Juniata College. She honed her athletic skills while a Titan. She recalls, “Throughout my four years at Shaler, my teachers and Coach Stadelman continuously stressed how important it is to work hard whether in the classroom or at volleyball practice. I was surrounded by a culture that encourages excellence, leadership, and reaching one’s maximum potential. In the gym, Coach Stadelman consistently taught us to communicate with and respect each other, to work hard every day to continually improve our skills, and to never stop fighting for the win, no matter how much the odds may be against us. I have taken these lessons with me and recognize that no matter if I am participating in a sport or working to achieve a personal or professional goal, giving 100% is vital; nothing less is acceptable. I believe this mindset, cultivated by my high school years at SAHS, will lead to great success in reaching my life goals.” Athletics is about far more than what happens in matches. Schubert explains, “I’ve learned many valuable lessons while playing volleyball throughout my life, especially in high school with Coach Paul Stadelman and his lessons in teamwork, leadership, and the importance of staying academically focused. Being a student athlete has taught me better time management and teamwork. Playing a sport, especially in college, is like having a full-time job while also taking classes and doing homework. I’ve learned how to use my time wisely to excel in academics, while still dedicating time in the gym to volleyball and my teammates. I have also learned that teamwork is not just important on the court, it’s the key to success in life as well. Being a good teammate means celebrating not just team achievements, but individual accomplishments, providing support to fellow teammates, respecting each person/player for their contributions, and being the best player you can be for the good of the team. There are always lessons to be learned from coaches and fellow teammates; I try to find those lessons that make me not only a better athlete, but a better person.”
Her dedication has paid off. This year, Schubert won her third national championship in volleyball. It was a milestone accomplishment. She reflects, “Winning a third consecutive national NCAA Division III Volleyball Championship was one of the most exciting moments I’ve experienced in my life. It still doesn’t feel real to achieve a feat not many have accomplished. My team went into this season being ranked #1 with a record of winning 61 straight matches, so every team wanted to be the one to defeat Juniata, and the pressure that comes with maintaining that #1 position is immense. It seems like it should be easy, but it’s not. We worked twice as hard this season practicing countless hours in the gym and training in the weight room to avoid becoming stagnant and complacent. During the NCAA tournament in Salem, Virginia, we faced an uphill battle as each team was a fearsome competitor who wanted to defeat us. In the second round, we played Hope College—the same team we faced in the 2023 championship game and they were hungry for a win. We found ourselves down two sets and to earn a spot in the championship game, we had to win three consecutive sets in a row—a reverse sweep—which is very hard to do. The momentum was not in our favor, nor were the odds, but my team did what it does best. We came together, trusted each other, and played like we had never played before. Somehow we found the will, the spirit, and the determination to pull off the win. Similarly, in the championship game, we played five sets to secure the title, with each point being a battle of skill and sheer determination. It was stressful, exhilarating, and fun all at the same time. This championship win was particularly special to me as it marked the end of my volleyball career, and playing in a national championship with my team and with the support and attendance of family and friends is a moment I will never forget.”
Schubert encourages students to be present and make the most of their high school experience. She shares, “Live in the moment, but also use your high school years wisely to prepare for your future. Time goes by quickly, so be sure to enjoy the time you spend with friends, family, coaches, and even in the classroom. Don’t constantly think about preparing for your next game, rehearsing for your next play, or studying for your next test, but when it’s time to practice, rehearse or study, give it 100% of your time and focus. That effort will help you to perform at the highest level, but also prepare you for life. Don’t be afraid to take a difficult class or face a tough competitor in your sport. All these experiences, including failure, will help you to grow and prepare you for success.”
