Southern Virginia senior women’s soccer defender Alicia Blackham loves being around people. So it’s no surprise that her favorite spots to hang out on campus are where lots of students congregate, she works part-time as a math tutor, and has plans of attending physical therapy school, after which she'll be working with people on a daily basis. INTRODUCING … Alicia Blackham.

Briefly, what is your background in the sport you play?   

I have played soccer since I was about 5 years old, and all four years while attending Southern Virginia University.  My older sisters played soccer as well, and I got to play college soccer at SVU with my older sister Meghan for 2 years before she graduated.  Soccer has always been big in my family.

What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline?  

I’m a liberal arts major, with minors in math, biology, and chemistry; I will be going to physical therapy school.  I have learned how to manage my time between school, work, soccer, and personal time, which is probably the most important skill I have learned in college.

What is your favorite spot on campus (and why)?

I love to hang out around Chandler field and the Arena because you can see everyone.  I like to do my homework on the picnic tables in the shade and relax with friends and meet new people.

Outside of your home and campus, where is your favorite place visit (and why)?    

I love the beach because I love being in the water or just relaxing on the shore.  The ocean is beautiful and I love being outside.

Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in (on campus or off campus)?  

I’m an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and I’m in our pre-med club at school.  I also work as a math tutor and a caterer.

Briefly describe the most memorable experience during your collegiate athletic career.

My sophomore year the team took a trip to Chicago for a postseason tournament for provisional NCAA institutions.  The drive to and from Chicago was full of memories, and the team played so well together in the two games we got to play.  Definitely one of my favorite times to be a part of this team, we had so much fun and made so many memories.

Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life (and why)?  

One major influential person was my 4th grade teacher, Mr. Gary Hanley.  He taught me to continue pursuing my dreams of playing college soccer, but also showed me the importance of knowledge.

What is your favorite form of entertainment (and why)?

I really just enjoy being with people.  Bonfires, swimming, hikes, you name it and I’m usually up for it as long as it’s with a fun group of people.

If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be?

Work hard in school and your hobbies will follow.  It’s a lot harder to get somewhere without a good education.

Outside of the CAC, who or what is your favorite sports person or team (and why)?  

I love the US Women’s National Team.  I love watching them play soccer and they seem like they would be so much fun to hang out with.

Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with (and why)?   

My grandpa on my dad’s side, because I never got the chance to meet him and I’m sure we would have a lot of fun talking and being together.

My great grandma on my mom’s side who I never knew either, because I have heard so many funny stories about her and I would love to meet her and hear more stories.

Isaac Newton because he invented so much, and was a very influential scientist and mathematician.