Getting to know…Zahara Quraishi
Preferred pronouns: She/Her
Date of Birth: 11/7/2005
Birth Location: West Hartford, CT, USA

Social Media
Instagram: zahara_quraishi

Sports Information
Sports played in high school: Volleyball
Individual Sports Honors or Rankings: CCC Champion (2021-22) (2022-23)
CCC All Conference (2022-23)
CCC Senior All Star (2022-23)
CCC All Academic (2022-23)
Captain (2022-23)
Favorite sports memory? Winning Boston Nike Fest during my 18 club season with Husky Volleyball Club
Who has been most influential in your athletic career? Ryan Mintzer-Woodcock
Other personal athletic highlights: Named University of Hartford’s WVB MVP for the 2023-2024 Season

Academics
Academic Honors previously earned: Dean’s List at University of Hartford
Chicago State Declared Academic Major: Psychology

Family
Daughter of Sulman Quraishi and Katharina Dienwebel
Brothers and/or sisters: Brother Voytek Quraishi

Fun
What is ONE thing most people don't know about you? I am half Polish and half Pakistani
What is your dream job? Sports Psychologist
Why did you choose Chicago State? The opportunity to further and challenge my athletic career at the highest level as well as grow and learn more about myself as well as the cultures I’ll be surrounded by.
What is your favorite hobby outside of sports? Singing
What is something you can brag about yourself besides your athletic accomplishments? Henna Artist
Who is your favorite professional athlete or team? F1- Carlos Sainz
How would you describe yourself when you're competing? Passionate
What is your favorite food? Strawberry Shortcake
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Pad Thai
What or who motivates you to work hard? I like to say I motivate myself. I play volleyball because I want to be the best version of myself both on and off the court. I strive to be the best teammate, scholar, friend, and competitor not only for others but for myself as well.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Do it with passion or not at all. 
Name three famous people you want to have over for dinner: Billie Eilish, Frank Ocean, Carlos Sainz
What is your go-to song at Karaoke night? I do not have one :(
Can you sing? Like, really sing??? Yes I can really sing. I’ve been singing since I could talk (thanks mom <>
Do you play musical instrumentals and if so, list them: Used to but not well anymore, Piano, Bass Guitar, Ukulele
Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years? Helping athletes discover how to face the mentally draining side of sports
What's the most DARING/CRAZIEST thing you've ever done? Cliff Jumping