Cory Darling Class: Sophomore Hometown: Newport Beach, Calif. High School: Newport Harbor HS Height / Weight: 5-2 / 120

Personal: Rowed for the Newport Aquatic Center, and was the team captain for the 2009-10 season ... parents are Ron and Beth Darling ... mother coxed and father rowed at UC Irvine ... one of three siblings, one sister and her brother were adopted ... intended film and studies major ... born in Newport Beach.

The best part about Cal crew is: It's competitive atmosphere.

I chose Cal because: Cal pushes me to grow as a person.

What sets Cal apart: It's liberal vibe and amazing academics.