15 Questions with... Peyton Raun, a Penn women's soccer sophomore

The Daily Pennsylvanian asked Penn women's soccer's Peyton Raun 15 questions about her time with the team, her experience at Penn, and her life overall. Here's what she had to say.  

1. Introduce yourself for our readers.

Hi everyone! My name is Peyton Raun, and I’m a sophomore in Wharton. I’m planning to study finance. I’m from Pleasanton, Calif. and I’m a defender for Penn women’s soccer.

2. How did you first get involved in soccer?

I’ve been playing since I was four years old, and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve found my closest friends through soccer, and I consider my team a second family.

3. Describe yourself in one sentence.

Someone who is relationship-oriented and always looks at the positives.

4. If you could meet anyone, who would it be? 5. Why that person?

Ruth Bader Ginsburg. During her time in the Supreme Court, she was a voice for gender equality, women, and civil rights. I am forever grateful for the changes she made that have positively impacted my life.

6. Where is a place you have always wanted to go?

I’ve always wanted to go to Greece with my mom, but I’d love to travel anywhere.

7. Why choose Penn?

Penn provided an opportunity to be challenged both academically and athletically, which are the qualities I valued most in my decision. I am so grateful to be surrounded by people who have positively shaped my experience here so far.

8. What is your favorite thing about soccer?

I love the competition, but mostly being a part of a team. The relationships I have built with past and present teammates and coaches are so important to me and have shaped who I am as not only a player, but a person too.

9. Give us some of the team’s playlist.

My sophomore class is always listening to some of the Big Booty Remixes (highly recommend vol. 11, 17, and 18). If not that, then EDM always hypes me up.

10. How do you feel about the soccer team’s chances this season?

In looking towards next year, I feel that we have a great group of talented and dedicated athletes on our team. The team culture is one that I am so grateful to be a part of. You can expect to see our team play with grit and pride when we get back out on the field. 

11. Who are some great friends you have made on the team?

Our team is a big family. It means so much to me that I could go to a teammate for anything and I know they are there for me. Our upperclassmen have set a great example for this family-like culture, which makes practice (or Zoom calls) even better. I know we can conquer any obstacles on and off the field together.

12. How has soccer shaped you as a female athlete?

Soccer has made me who I am, and I always try to spread that empowerment. To that endeavor, I’m actually a part of two great organizations: Girls Soccer Worldwide and Voice in Sport. Both are committed to getting women across the world more involved in athletics, and both are a big part of me. Please do go check out both organizations, the more involvement the better.

13. If you weren't playing soccer, what would you be doing right now?

I’ve really been brushing up on my cooking skills with my mom’s help in quarantine, but let’s just say that my skills aren’t quite there yet.

14. What is something that has been difficult for you since coming to Penn?

My family is everything, so it’s definitely hard to be far from them. I’m so thankful for their constant support and guidance regardless of the distance. The cold weather is also an adjustment, but I’m working through it one winter at a time.

15. Any advice for all the young athletes out there?

Hard work is a standard, but it is also so important to always have fun!