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Student-Athlete, Hannah Chen '26 Balances Academics, Clubs, & Sports with Success
February 25th 2025
FOREST HILLS, N.Y. — The month of February is designated as National Girls & Women in Sports Month in the United States. The month of celebration was established by the Women’s Sports Foundation in 1987. We celebrate all local athletes and had the privilege of learning about Hannah Chen ’26. Hannah is currently a junior at The Kew-Forest School.
Tell us a little about yourself.
Hannah Chen: I have lived in Queens for five years. I joined The Kew-Forest School in September 2019 in sixth grade. I am currently in my junior year and really love art.
When did you begin participating in athletics at Kew-Forest and what led you to do so?
Hannah Chen: I started playing sports at Kew-Forest in eighth grade. I don’t remember my exact reasons for participating but I think I decided to join after seeing many of my classmates sign up. I thought it would be a cool experience, so I signed up too.
What sports do you play, and which is your favorite?
Hannah Chen: I play volleyball and basketball at Kew-Forest now but was also on the track and field team once. If I had to pick a favorite, I’d say basketball because I feel more immersed in the experience.
In your junior year in high school as a student-athlete, how do you manage your time, maintain a positive mindset, and stay resilient between academic, athletic, and extracurricular commitments?
Hannah Chen: I have to say that junior year is a tough year, and doing sports at the same time makes it even more challenging. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible, and the solution that I use all the time is to maintain a positive mindset. I know it might sound like something that your school counselor says all the time, but I really do think it’s important.
What female athlete(s) inspire(s) you and why?
Hannah Chen: I didn’t pay attention to athletics until I began playing sports myself, so I’m inspired by all my coaches here at Kew-Forest rather than a famous or prominent figure.
Outside of sports, what classes are you taking and which do you most enjoy
Hannah Chen: I’m taking AP English Language, US History, Media Art, Myth and Identity, Honors Physics, AP Spanish Language, AP Calculus BC, and Yearbook. I enjoy Media Art and Myth and Identity the most.
What clubs do you participate in at Kew-Forest?
Hannah Chen: I am a member of the Eco-sweep Club, AMC Club (American Mathematics Competition), and am the founder of the Felting Club.
What advice would you give to other high school students who want to play sports?
Hannah Chen: Always enjoy the process of learning the sport and playing the sport with your teammates. Don’t be discouraged from thinking whether you are competent. I believe that passion is way more important than skill, as you can always improve by practicing.
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