With Time Management and Balance, Nursing Student-Athlete Lainey Quinones Enjoys the Journey

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN TERMS OF YOUR PERSONAL AND TEAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS? 

I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such an amazing team. We have a team-first mentality, and we often say that we swim for those who came before us, honoring the legacy of our program. Over the past three years, our team has maintained the VUSD legacy and contributed to an 11-year streak of winning the Big East Championships. I am honored to have been selected by my teammates as a leader of the team this year.

Outside of the pool, I am also proud of how well I have performed. For the past two years, I have won the Academic Excellence Award, awarded to the member of the women's team with the highest cumulative GPA. I also feel incredibly grateful to have been inducted into the Alpha Nu chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society. 

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS DOES SOMEONE NEED TO BE A SUCCESSFUL NURSING STUDENT-ATHLETE? 

To excel as a nursing student-athlete, time management is crucial. Trying to find the right balance between rigorous academic demands, athletic training and personal commitments can be challenging. On our team, my coaches have played a huge role in fostering this balance. They often talk about embracing the “triple crown of success”—being champions in the pool, achieving high GPAs in the classroom and leading in community service. It is very important to me that I not only excel individually but also contribute positively to my team and community. Our coaches have taught us that by integrating these elements, we can thrive in our respective roles. 

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES AS A NURSING STUDENT-ATHLETE?

One of the biggest challenges I have faced as a nursing student-athlete is integrating a 12-hour clinical day into my athletic schedule. We practice Monday through Saturday, totaling over 20 hours a week. We swim twice a day, three times a week, with a 6 to 8 a.m. practice and an afternoon session. We also have weight room sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 

With clinical, I miss both of my practices on Monday, so I have to find time to make them up. For me, this means coming in on Sunday as well as adding an extra morning practice to my schedule on Tuesdays. While it can sometimes feel like a lot, it is most definitely worth it, and I am grateful to have coaches who are so supportive and accommodating of my schedule.  

WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION AS AN ATHLETE AND A NURSING STUDENT?

In high school, one of my best friends and teammates, Kendall, tragically passed away. Kendall was an amazingly talented swimmer and a person who inspired me every day. When I am in the hardest of practices, I think of her, knowing that she would've done anything to swim another day, and it reminds me to be grateful for every opportunity I have in the pool. Her memory drives me to push through challenges and honor her spirit.

My family is what led me into the field of medicine. I come from a long line of doctors including my grandfather, dad, uncle and sister, however, I was drawn to nursing because it allows me to be hands-on with patients. I find so much joy in forming meaningful relationships and witnessing the direct impact of the care I provide. 

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WITH YOUR NURSING CAREER? 

I want to pursue a career in pediatric nursing. Upon graduation, I am going to begin my career as a Clinical Scholars New Graduate Nurse in the Pediatric Transplant Unit at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. I also hope to eventually return to school to further my degree. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN INCOMING NURSING STUDENT-ATHLETE?  

Stay organized and on top of things. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Balance is key—make sure to prioritize your mental and physical health. Also, cherish the moments with your teammates; they’ll become some of your closest friends, and the four years go by so fast! 

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE ANYTHING ELSE? 

I want to emphasize the importance of enjoying the journey. Both athletics and nursing can be demanding, but they’re also incredibly rewarding. Stay passionate and keep pushing yourself!