Lehman College women's swimming sophomore standout Sarina Eshtiaghi was named the CUNYAC/Hospital for Special Surgery Scholar-Athlete of the Month for December 2018.
Eshtiaghi, the 2017-18 CUNYAC Rookie of the Year, continues to make waves for the Lightning. She won all eight individual races (five different disciplines) she swam in and beat her opposition by 15 seconds or better in five of those eight races in the month of December.
"It means a lot (to be named the Scholar-Athlete of the Month)," Eshtiaghi said. "I am so happy and appreciative that I was chosen. I feel that I opened another door in my journey and I appreciate everyone that has helped me get this far."
Additionally, Eshtiaghi currently has the conference's best times in the 50-, 100- and 200-yard backstroke in 2018-19. She ranks in the Top 5 in the league in the 200- and 1,000-yard freestyle, 50-yard breaststroke, 50-yard butterfly and 200-yard individual medley, as well.
Her journey doesn't just stop in the pool. Eshtiaghi remains busy outside of it. She works as a part-time teacher in a pre-school and an EMS volunteer attendant, and serves as a swimming instructor on weekends.
When asked how she finds the time to balance all of her responsibilities, Eshtiaghi said: "I can't say it's easy. I work in the mornings, and after work, I have classes and practice. I usually use my free time at night to study in the library. I enjoy all of the stuff I do. I can't complain about it."
Eshtiaghi then added about the sport she loves: "I have been swimming since I am nine years old. I stopped for two years because of injuries, but came back to swimming when I joined Lehman and I am so happy that I did. Swimming is so special to me, because it calms me down and helps me relax. I tried a lot of sports when I was young, but I have never loved anything more than swimming."
Eshtiaghi, who plans to attend medical school, currently majors in Biology with a 3.43 grade-point average. The effort has always equaled the return for the Mamaroneck native.
"Hard work always produces better results," Eshtiaghi commented. "I do my best to do it the way I should, and after that, I feel good because I know I improved and didn't give up. College is not like high school. No one is forcing you to practice or do all the sets. Doing your best during the hardest of times makes you stronger."