SEASIDE, Calif. — Mia Dilley's journey as a student-athlete at Cal State Monterey Bay has been defined by her passion for volleyball and her dedication to her team. As she enters her final season, Dilley reflects on the experiences that have shaped her and the goals she hopes to achieve before she graduates.
Dilley chose CSUMB for its beachside location and the "at home" feeling it gave her.
The decision has paid off, as she's thrived both on and off the court, forming lasting friendships with her teammates. These relationships have been a cornerstone of her collegiate experience, providing support and camaraderie that extend beyond the volleyball court.
"The best part of my collegiate experience has been being able to meet so many new and amazing people and getting to call a lot of them my closest friends," Dilley said. "I came from a junior college, and even now, I still talk to my old teammates regularly."
In her final season, Dilley is focused on making it her best one yet. She's embraced a mindset centered around fun and positivity, aiming to contribute to her team's success in whatever way she can.
"Individually, I hope that I can just take advantage of my last season and make it my best one yet," Dilley said. "I have had a big focus on my mindset this season to have fun and help my team out in whatever way that I can — trying not to focus on any negative thoughts or feelings because this is my last season, and I want to focus on just having fun."
Together with her teammates, Dilley is striving to reach the conference tournament, emphasizing a "We over Me" mentality. With a roster full of skilled and talented players, she's confident that they can achieve their goal.
"As a team, we have focused on 'We over Me' with our big roster and that we have so many good people to put on the floor that we all will stay together and play for each other," Dilley said. "With all of the skill and talent we have this year, I believe that we can definitely make it to the tournament."
Looking beyond her time at CSUMB, Dilley has big aspirations. Her goal is to attend veterinary school and become a doctor of veterinary medicine, specializing in dentistry.
This passion for animals and desire to make a difference in their lives reflects the same dedication and commitment she brings to the volleyball court.
Dilley's journey at CSUMB is about more than just volleyball. It's about the relationships she's built, the lessons she's learned, and the goals she's set for herself. As she wraps up her final season, she's determined to make the most of every moment and leave a lasting impact on her team.
GO OTTERS!
