Every month, we recognize a student athlete. This month, we recognize freshman Camila Serrano.

Serrano is on the Birmingham Community Charter High School varsity cross country team. She usually competes in the 3-mile distance race.

Q: How long have you been running?

A: Since last year. In my last school, they do speeches on how they did the marathon. I heard the speeches in PE and thought it would be cool to join.

Q: What got you into cross country?

A: Last year, I was a Students Run LA member (SRLA). I enjoyed it, so I just started cross country (this year).

Q: Where do you want to go in life with this sport?

A: I hope it takes me to college to run professionally.

Q: What is the biggest challenge that comes while in a race?

A: Definitely pain in my knees because I always had to wear a knee brace because it hurts.

Q: What has been your best time in a race?

A: A 25:12 for the 3-mile distance race.

Q: What has been the most challenging distance you ever ran? Why? 

A: Definitely (the Los Angeles) Marathon: 26.2 miles (n March 16). 

Q: Do you plan to do another marathon? 

A: Yes. Maybe this year if I can become a high school leader for my middle school (Nobel Charter Middle School).

Q: What do you do after a race to recover?

A: I put ice on whatever hurts and I eat healthy foods.