(Editor's Note:  This is part of a series of stories of the RUDY Award finalists.  Two winners – one male and one female – will be announced at the conclusion of the end of the R.UD.Y.S. Awards Banquet on Monday.  

R.U.D.Y.S. stands for Recognition and celebration of University of Dayton student-athletes Year-end Showcase.  It is hosted by the UD Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and Dayton Athletics administration for the student-athletes to recognize individuals and teams for their accomplishments this past year.
 
These stories were written by students in Dr. Haozho Pu's HS 353 Sports Media class.)

Written by Emily Szczepkowicz. Noah Corbin, Pryce Wilojanapa

Originally from Union, Kentucky, Elizabeth is pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, with an impressive track record of achievements already under her belt. Graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2023, she is poised to complete her graduate studies in May 2024, a testament to her dedication and perseverance.

Throughout her academic journey, Elizabeth has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence, earning a coveted spot on the Dean's List multiple times. Her stellar performance has also been recognized by the Atlantic 10 Commissioner's Honor Roll, reflecting her academic prowess and dedication to her studies.

However, Elizabeth's talents extend beyond the classroom. As a member and captain of the UD women's tennis team, she has left an indelible mark on the court. Her impressive achievements, including being named the Atlantic 10 Player of the Week and receiving accolades such as the Mental Attitude Award and Rising Star Award, highlight her exceptional skill and leadership qualities.

Off the court, Elizabeth enjoys indulging in hobbies such as watching movies, shows, and crafting jewelry, showcasing her creativity and diverse interests. Her ability to balance her academic pursuits with her passion for athletics and personal hobbies is a testament to her exemplary time management and dedication.

In essence, Elizabeth Hamilton epitomizes the spirit of a Flyer—driven, resilient, and committed to excellence in all endeavors. Her remarkable achievements both academically and athletically serve as an inspiration to her peers and a testament to her unwavering determination and hard work.

Q; What does being a Flyer mean to you? 
A: "Being a Flyer to me means being part of a close-knit community that values integrity, teamwork, and dedication both in competition and in service to others. Whether it's serving on the tennis court or within the community, I am proud to represent the University of Dayton and what it stands for".

Q: What is one of the most influential moments in your athletic career?
A: "One of the most influential moments in my athletic career would be winning the state doubles title with one of my best friends my senior year of high school. I was also awarded the Miss Kentucky Tennis Award for 2019. It was amazing to finish off my high school career on such a high note, and it gave me the confidence to compete at the Division I level". 

Q: Balancing sports and academics can be challenging.  How do you organize your time effectively to ensure success in both areas?
A: "To organize my time effectively in both areas, I make sure to prioritize quality over quantity. When it comes to school, I make sure to study with others that have similar goals as me, and I don't hesitate to ask my professors for help. With tennis, I make sure to have a focus for each practice, so I can be more intentional with the time I have. Despite having little free time, I make sure to set aside time for myself to relax and spend time with family and friends, so I can be more motivated to reach my academic and athletic goals. I also have to credit the University of Dayton for the support I was provided in scheduling my classes and allowing me to select mechanical engineering as my field of study". 

Q: How has being a student-athlete contributed to your personal growth and development?  
A: "Being a student-athlete has contributed to my personal growth by instilling valuable lessons in time management, discipline, and teamwork. Balancing a difficult major while playing Division 1 tennis has helped me develop resilience, perseverance, and a strong work ethic. Additionally, playing college tennis has taught me the importance of teamwork. Competing alongside my teammates, I learned to support and lean on others, creating a sense of community and giving me memories I 'll cherish forever". 

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations after graduating from UD?  
A: "My current plan after graduation is to continue working in the mechanical engineering field that I am most interested in - biomechanics. The reputation of the University of Dayton allowed me to find such a position at Honda R&D. I hope to use my passion for medicine and engineering to make a meaningful impact as a biomechanical engineer. In my free time, I would like to share my college athlete experience with younger generations and potentially teach tennis to future college athletes". 

PREVIOUS STORIES
Casey Bogues -- Track & Field
Destiny Bohanon -- Basketball
Connor Bruce -- Tennis 
Abby Carter -- Cross Country/Track & Field
Alicia Donley -- Soccer
Calan Gizelbach -- Cross Country