University of Georgia Athletics
Senior Spotlight: Danielle Walawender
February 08, 2019 | Equestrian
Senior Hunter Seat rider and Seaville, New Jersey-native, Danielle Walawender, applies her love and passion for horses in the classroom by majoring in Animal Science. Walawender's describes herseslf as a perfectionist, she puts Siracha on just about anything, and… Check out her Q&A below to learn more…
"Why Georgia," what made you choose to attend the University of Georgia?
"The moment I met all the girls I immediately felt accepted. Even though I was only a recruit, I already felt a part of the UGA Equestrian family. I did not get that feeling anywhere else. And UGA's campus is incredible and has such a home like feel. Now whenever I say "home" I mean Athens, GA not New Jersey (sorry mom!)."
Favorite class you have taken at UGA.
"Tropical Entomology, because it was a part of my study abroad to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. That was truly an incredible experience I'll never forget. I literally swam in the open water while a sea lion swam around me. It was unreal."
If you could play any other sport what would it be and why?
"In an alternate universe- gymnastics. I love focusing on details and being precise. However, more realistically I would probably be a cheerleader."
What does Coach M mean to you?
"Coach M is an important figure in my life. She is someone who I can confide, but also pushes me to be my best. Coach M is always encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and be the best version of myself."
What do you like about the discipline you ride?
"I love how all the little details are so important. I am a perfectionist when it comes to riding, so I always feel like I am working towards becoming better and fixing my mistakes. I am also a big show off, so I love how hunt seat truly encourages the rider to look pretty and hold themselves well, in addition to making the horse look good."
What is your biggest goal in life?
"To live a full complete happy life."
What is your guilty pleasure (TV show) that you like to watch?
"Ru Paul's Drag Race. I am a sucker for reality TV and game shows. Ru Paul's Drag Race is both of those, it can entertain me for hours."
What is your biggest pet peeve?
"Not having my nails done. I feel naked if I don't have them on, and I know I am going to have a terrible day if my nails don't look perfect. I know it's weird, but I just love the way they look on me. Think of them like socks to me. You don't have to wear socks, but you feel very uncomfortable if you don't."
What is a weird food combination you like?
"I like Siracha on everything. Doesn't matter what kind of food it is, everything is better with a little kick to it."
What legacy do you want to leave at Georgia?
"I would like to be known as a person who always put the horses before myself."
