With her commitment to NC State solidified, Dow eagerly anticipates the collegiate experience. 'It feels really good to have made my choice without any second guesses or regrets,' she shares. 'I know with certainty that I'm going to be so happy at NC State, and I always run best when I'm happy.' Despite the geographical distance from home, Dow and her parents recognized the value of finding a place she truly loves. 'It was clear that as a college athlete, you aren't really coming home very often anyway,' she acknowledges. "My parents and I knew that an extra plane ride was worth finding a place that I just really loved."
Transitioning to her expectations for collegiate athletics, Dow eagerly discusses the team environment awaiting her at NC State. 'I'm most looking forward to the camaraderie and teamwork that come with running in college,' she remarks. 'Training, traveling, and racing with the Wolfpack is going to be really fun.' Beyond the track, she eagerly anticipates immersing herself in North Carolina's vibrant sports culture and pursuing her degree in Sports Management.
Looking ahead to the 2024 track season, Dow remains focused on consistency and gaining valuable racing experiences. "This year, I'm focusing on consistency and gaining more racing experiences," says Dow. "I just got an invite to race the mile at the Brooks PR in Seattle in June, so I'm really looking forward to that meet as I know it's an amazing experience, and I'll hopefully get to meet some of the girls who will be my future teammates at NC State. I'm also planning on racing in the Canadian Nationals in Montreal in June. Depending on how my times are, I'd like to try to make Team Canada again for the U20 World Junior Championships in Peru in August."
As Dow embarks on this new chapter, she extends a hand of guidance to those navigating the recruiting process. "Go into it with an open mind and base your decision on the place that feels right for you because of the people," she advises. And as she prepares to join the Wolfpack family, her parting words resonate with pride and anticipation: "Go Pack! ️"