Sam Palser Class: Senior Hometown: Chester Springs, Pa. High School: Downingtown East Event: Free

HIGH SCHOOL: Sam swam for Downingtown East in Exton, Pa. At Downingtown East, she set school records in the 50 free, 100 free, 200 medley relay, 200 free relay and 400 free relay. She won a PIAA state championship in the 50 free in 2007. The Daily Local named her Swimmer of the Year in 2007. She participated in the 2006 and 2007 Junior Nationals with the Malvern Swimming Association.

PERSONAL: Samantha Lynne Palser was born March 11, 1990 in Boothwyn, Pa. She has a brother named Chris (9). Her cousin, Joe Homitz, graduated from Penn State in 2006. She plans on becoming a marketing major at Penn State. She is self-proclaimed fan of the Philadelphia Eagles.

WHY I CHOSE PENN STATE: "Penn State was the only school where I found the perfect balance of challenging athletics and academics. Also, I love the atmosphere of the school and the people."