Zuzanna Komor breaks down her rookie year in United States

First of all, let’s speak a little what brings you to United States. It must have been a difficult decision to make. Why did you decide on leaving home and started a new chapter in U.S.?

When I was younger, 10 or 12 years old, my dream was playing in the WNBA someday. For some reason, nobody believed me! So when the opportunity came to go to America for sports and education, I instantly realized I have to do whatever it takes to get there.

Was it difficult to leave family and friends? Yes, but at the same time I felt it was meant to be. I knew I would be playing in America since the old days. So far, I haven’t regretted my decision for a second.

Going through the process: school offers, interviews, paperwork, do you recall your emotions back then? Were you nervous? Anxious? Excited?

It’s a combination of stress and excitement. Checking the schools and exploring options, participating in interviews, doing some tests… Naturally, I was nervous. Yet very happy, too. My biggest dream was coming true. I learned to be patient.

Please, talk a little about your very first impressions in United States. What was your first week like?

Oh, my first impressions exceeded the expectation. People were so nice. They still are up to this day. I don’t really miss home much.

Coming a few days before the school officially started helped me to settle in. I was walking around the campus, meeting new people, getting familiar with environment and rules, working out… You know, chilling.

After spending almost a year in America, can you compare our two cultures? Schools? Basketball programs?

Totally different countries! It’s even hard to compare. In U.S., we have 4 classes of 90 minutes each day per semester. 4 subjects in fall semester, different 4 – in spring, so 8 classes in total per academic year. Basketball is also very different. Over here, we have practice twice or even three times per day, while in Poland we had strict hours 3 to 5 times in a week. In my school, if you want to work extra, just go ahead and get yourself busy, even it is 5:00 AM in the morning.

Are you happy with your current situation? What was the most exciting moment by far?

I cannot be happier with my current situation. Since the season is over now, I am playing AAU basketball. Also, the school participates in different tournaments all around the country: Chicago, Dallas, Orlando. Exposure wise, we travel a lot and many college coaches get to see me play. I am truly blessed with this basketball program. It is my big ticket to earn a scholarship in college.

Tell us, what is your typical day like?

The schedule is strict and tight. During the season, we have morning practice at 6:00 AM. After that, quick shower, breakfast. Classes are through 8:00 AM to 2:30 AM, short break for lunch at 12:00. From 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM we have another practice. Dinner is at 6:00 PM. Finally, study hall and homework at the end of the day.

In post season, no practice at 6:00 AM!

What helps you to stay focus on your duties as a student athlete in school?

It’s crucial to be responsible in boarding schools. If I didn’t turn paper in on time or didn’t get good grades, I wouldn’t be able to practice and play. On basketball court, too – no excuses. You just need to get work done. Surely the system is very demanding, but at the same time it teaches the importance of responsibility in life.

Do you miss home? Are you in constant communications with family and friends back home?

Of course, I miss my family and friends, I am talking to them every day after school or during breaks. Winter, spring breaks is the time I can come back home to Poland for a short visit.

Finally, what are your future goals and targets at the moment? Can you picture yourself in America for a longer, undefined period of time?

I know I will be playing D1 college basketball in the USA! For sure! It’s my ultimate goal. Moreover, after receiving a degree, I hope I will also be offered to play professionally in Europe.