With the spring sports season canceled at its very beginning (or before it even started, for some Union teams) due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UnionAthletics.com will spend the next few months spotlighting many of the Union seniors whose athletic careers came to a premature end. Previous senior profiles can be viewed by heading to http://www.unionathletics.com/seniorspotlights.
 
Anna Browne has a four-year member of the Union indoor and outdoor track and field teams, competing in three seasons with both squads as both a jumper and a sprinter. She took part in nine meets during the indoor season, helping the 4x400 relay to a second-place finish at Colgate and running the fastest 400-meter time of her collegiate career in her last race at the Armory in February. As a freshman, she helped the 4x100 relay to All-Conference second-team honors with a runner-up finish at the Liberty League Outdoor Championships.
 
Off the track, the biology and anthropology double major is a two-time Liberty League All-Academic Team selection, a Dean's List student and an associate member of Sigma Xi honor society. She also is on the executive board of the Environmental Club and a member of U-Sustain.
 
What has been your favorite moment as a student-athlete at Union?
Returning to practice and competition this year following an injury. I am fortunate to have been a part of a team of dedicated athletes (including many underclassmen) and coaches that provided me with motivation and support throughout this journey.
 
How has being a student-athlete at Union benefited you over the last four years?
Being a student-athlete provided me with a source of challenge and relief, as well as a sense of community. I know that the things I have learned in training and competition will benefit me in life spheres outside of collegiate athletics.
 
What has been your most meaningful experience outside of athletics?
Getting the chance to participate in unique interdisciplinary opportunities, such as the Adirondack mini-term.
 
Who was/is your favorite professor at Union and why?
My favorite professor at Union is Professor Jeffrey Corbin [Professor of Biological Sciences] in the Biology Department. Aside from being my wonderful professor, Environmental Science & Policy minor advisor, research advisor, and thesis advisor, Professor Corbin has been instrumental in providing me with the support and challenges I needed to grow and succeed in all aspects of my college career.
 
Do you have plans for post-graduation yet?  If so, what are they?
Following graduation, I am hoping to get work experience in public policy (specifically related to affordable housing or sustainability and climate policy) before pursuing a master's degree in urban planning.
 
What advice would you give to younger athletes about their time at Union?
Don't be afraid to try new things or take a new path, even if it does not fit your original plan or vision.