Oct. 26, 2011

BERKELEY - A two-time Pac-12 Freshman of the Week, Christina Higgins has already made a name for herself in the few short months she has been playing for Cal volleyball. Yet another one of Rich Feller's recruits to come to Berkeley with a distinguished resumé, Higgins has worked her way into the starting line-up with the No. 2 Golden Bears. She was Prepvolleyball.com's No. 11-ranked Senior Ace and a Fab 50 Senior by Volleyball Magazine. She was named to the USA Singapore Youth World Olympic Team and led her squad to a silver-medal finish and helped guide Sports Shack Volleyball Club to the gold medal at the 2010 Junior National Championships. CalBears.com sat down with Higgins to get her thoughts on living in Berkeley, volleyball and more.

According to Rich Feller:

"Her team won back-to-back titles at JOs at 18 opens. She was the starting right side for that team both years. She's a big, powerful blocker and hitter. Watching her play in camp, I'm very excited about her chances to compete immediately for a chance to make an impact on the team, whether it's to start or off the bench. She's going to be good with us."

CalBears.com: What is the best thing about being a part of Cal volleyball?

Christina Higgins: The best part of being part a part of Cal volleyball is the feeling of belonging to a team, and a very successful team at that. It's an exciting feeling to work hard with a group of people that have common goals and aspirations with you.

CalBears.com: What is one thing you can't live without?

CH: I can't live without volleyball and my immediate family.

CalBears.com: What made you chose Cal?

CH: I chose Cal because it had an excellent sports program, but at the same time it's a very prestigious academic school.

CalBears.com: What's your favorite part about Berkeley?

CH: My favorite part of Berkeley is that it's a very lively city. There's always something to do and something to see.

CalBears.com: Who is your biggest hero?

CH: My biggest heroes are my parents because of how they selflessly support me in everything that I do.

CalBears.com: Did you grow up watching Cal athletics? What has it been like to represent them?

CH: I didn't grow up watching Cal athletics, but I feel honored to represent such a prestigious school and sports program.

CalBears.com: What has been your favorite part about college life so far?

CH: My favorite part about college life so far has been being independent and on my own for the first time.

CalBears.com: What has been the hardest, most surprising aspect about transitioning from high school to college?

CH: The hardest thing is to balance having an enjoyable social life, schoolwork and sports.

CalBears.com: What characteristic in people do you most admire?

CH: I admire people's kindness, humility and humor the most.

CalBears.com: What class are you most enjoying this fall?

CH: I am enjoying my African-American studies class the most.

CalBears.com: Now that you're a couple of weeks into your first semester of college, what advice do you wish someone had told you about college or would you give to incoming student-athletes?

CH: I'd advise them to keep up with all their readings and homework. It's okay to have a social life, but make sure it is balanced with staying on top of your school and sports responsibilities.

CalBears.com: What were your initial impressions of Berkeley?

CH: My initial impression of Berkeley was that it was a very lively city. There was always something or someone interesting to see even just walking around the city's streets.

CalBears.com: What would you like to be doing in 10 years?

CH: I would like to be married with one child, have bought a house and working in corporate America.