FAIRFAX, Va.—GoMason.Com went off the court with junior Tiffany Clarke, a junior right side hitter from Portmore, Jamaica.

You have a good deal of international experience, playing back home in Jamaica. How do you think that experience has helped you at Mason as both a player and a team leader?

Growing up I had always been a shy individual but my experience playing at an international level has helped me to become more confident as a person as well as a player. I've also learned the value of being a team player. Being the youngest on the Jamaica team, I had my older and more experienced teammates to look up to, who were always there to encourage me as well as to offer their support and guidance. I try to practice these skills at Mason as best as I can.

 Fairfax is a far way from home, what led to pick Mason?

I was competing alongside the national team in a tournament in Lancaster, Pa where there were   college coaches recruiting players. I got a couple offers, Mason being one of course and after doing some research, it seemed to be the best fit for me. What I found so captivating is the school's diversity and the fact that it's so close to D.C.

In addition to volleyball, you grew up playing netball and played a year of basketball in high school where you earned recognition for being the best rebounder and having the most steals. How have the skills you learned from basketball and netball helped you in volleyball?

I had been playing netball long before I started playing volleyball and basketball. Two things all three sports have in common are that there is a need for good ball control and good coordination.  I was pretty good at those skills in netball so it made the transition to basketball and volleyball a lot easier.

You're the youngest of four, what is the biggest lesson you've learned from your siblings?

The biggest lesson that I have learned from my siblings would be that anything in life worth having is worth working hard for and nothing is unattainable.

What's the best book/movie you've read or watched recently and why?

The most recent book that I've read would have to be “Think Big” by Ben Carson. I just think it is a very motivational story and it encourages me to know that it doesn't matter the circumstance that you are born into, with hard work, faith and determination, dreams can come true.