FAIRFAX, Va. - Freshman Katie Treichel of the George Mason women's cross country team may be young but she is already making a significant impact on the team. She was the third and second finisher for Mason at the William and Mary Invitational and the Spider Alumni Open, respectively. A native of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., she attended Saratoga Springs High School. She recently took some time to answer some questions for GoMason.com.

GoMason.com: Why did you choose George Mason University?

Treichel: Of all the schools I looked at, Mason was by far my favorite. When I met Coach [Sita] Ewell and the team on my official visit I knew it was the right fit for me. It felt like my home away from home.

GoMason.com: What are your goals for this season?

Treichel: I want to help the team by performing the best that I can and to see myself improve as the season progresses.

GoMason.com: Who would you say you look up to the most?

Treichel: My high school coaches Art and Linda Kranick. They taught me the importance of working hard to achieve your goals and they also helped me prepare to run at the college level.

GoMason.com: What does your typical off-season training consist of?

Treichel: I typically lower my mileage, but I also cross train by doing workouts on the bike or swimming in the pool. It is also important for me to keep up my core and strength work.

GoMason.com: What would you like to do after college?

Treichel:  I hope to stay in the northern Virginia area, and get a job that I enjoy.

GoMason.com: If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?

Treichel: I would visit Aruba.

GoMason.com: What is something that most people don't know about you?

Treichel: I'm obsessed with baking.

Katie Treichel's Favorites:

Color: Blue

Ice-cream flavor: Vanilla

Quote: "The will to win means nothing if you haven't the will to prepare." -Juma Ikanhaa

Movie: Miracle