May 4, 2007

Lorene Skipper has been a star on the NIU women's track and field team over the past few years. Skipper was name 2nd team All-MAC this winter for her efforts in the indoor season, finishing in second-place in the 800-meter dash (2:12.32) at the MAC Indoor Championships. She currently holds nine school records, four of her own and five as a member of relay teams.

Why did you decide to come to NIU?

"I chose NIU because of the track and field coach and the broadcast journalism program."

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete at NIU?

"Being able to do what I love... Run."

What is the toughest part about being an athlete at NIU?

"The toughest part about being an athlete is staying motivated when tired."

What is your most memorable moment at NIU?

"My most memorable moment would have to be running in one track meet my freshman year."

What is your favorite road trip while at NIU?

"Traveling to the Drake Relays."

If you could accomplish just one thing while at NIU, what would it be and why?

"Being a TV host, because that is what I want to do for a living."

How do you prepare for a big contest? What goes through your mind right before the competition starts?

"I work as hard as I can. When I'm on the line, I remind myself of why I run and then I just go."

Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career?

"1. God 2. Me, for overcoming so many obstacles and limitations." What's your favorite saying or phrase uttered by your coach?

Head Coach Connie Teaberry, "You have it, you just have to believe in yourself and do it."

How has being a student-athlete at NIU helped or changed you?

"I have learned discipline and multi-tasking. It has also given me the confidence to face the real world."

What is your favorite class? What is your least favorite class?

"My favorite is broadcast journalism. My least favorite is math."

What is your favorite activity outside of sports? Why?

"My favorite activity would have to be acting because it's fun."

Where is your favorite place to eat in DeKalb? Why?

"Eduardo's, I have some good memories from there."

If you could have dinner with 3 people in history, who would it be and why?

"Jesus, because He is the straight and narrow path. Oprah, because she has wisdom and overcomes barriers everyday. Marion Jones, because she would be an inspirational athlete to train with."

If someone wrote a book about your life, what would the title be? Why?

"A star is born! I think God has big plans for me."

Who would play you in the movie about your life? Why?

"I have no idea; I don't know anyone like me."

The song I can't stop listening to right now is... "Glamorous," by Fergi

I am the video game champion of... Pac-man

TV show I can't stop watching right now is... The Simpson's

My favorite all-time movie is... Talladega Nights

Funniest thing that's ever happened to me is... Just life in general.

The words I try to live by are... Faith, Love and Happiness

-NIU-