MANKATO, Minn. --- As the 2016-17 athletic year continues, get to know a few of the student-athletes with a Maverick Q&A series. This week features Minnesota State softball senior infielder Samantha Buhmann from Prior Lake, Minn.

When did you start playing softball?
"Five years old playing T-ball then traveling softball when I was eight years old."

Why Minnesota State?
"I knew this was a winning program and wanted to be a part of it. I also live an hour away so it's super close and convenient for family to come watch games."

What is your favorite memory as a Maverick so far?
"My favorite part about being a Maverick is all the connections I've made with classmates, coaches, and teammates."

Did anyone in your family play college sports?
"No, I'm the first."

What is your favorite part about being a student-athlete?
"My favorite thing about being a student-athlete is just being able to pursue my dream of playing college softball."

What is your major and why did you choose it?
"It is exercise science, pre-OT. I chose it because I like helping people and I just find learning about the human body very fascinating."

What do you like most about being on the team?
"As a freshman, you automatically have 20 some friends coming in. Our team is like a family in that we can always count on each other for anything. That's a great feeling."

Why did you choose your jersey number?
"I chose 23 because I have always been number three growing up and three was in it. I actually like 23 better than three now."

Any pregame rituals?
"Not really, I don't get superstitious."

What is a goal you have for your college career?
"My goal is just to have fun and don't take anything for granted because it really goes by fast. I would like to stay consistent in my hitting and keep solid defense."