Utica Ford II grad Lace Harris will hoop it up in Hawaii By Sue Teggart While most people choose Hawaii as a vacation destination, Shelby Township resident and 2008 Utica Ford II graduate Lace Harris plans to make it her home for the next four years as she suits up to play basketball for the University of Hawaii-Hilo. Harris said that although Hawaii’s idyllic surroundings are a bonus, she based her decision to go there on the major she plans to pursue — Japanese. “I looked at academics first,” Harris said about her college search. “I want to be a translator or interpreter, and Hawaii had my major. Most other colleges just have (Japanese) as a minor or have Asian studies. I just wanted to focus on Japanese.” Harris said she fell in love with the language after her brother, Cartier, 20, who just happened to be studying it at Ford II, introduced her to it. “I took classes at Ford, and I just loved it,” Harris said. Once Harris was committed to studying Japanese, her collegiate decision was narrowed to Wayne State University or Hawaii-Hilo. “I always had a desire to not stay in Michigan,” Harris said. After a quick browse on her computer, Harris said aloha to Hawaii-Hilo. “A virtual tour, that’s what I did,” Harris said with a laugh. Of course, it didn’t hurt that it had a basketball program that she fit right into. “I knew they had a good (basketball) program,” she said. “I know it’s going to a be a totally different level. “I’m excited for college basketball.” When she’s not in the classroom or putting in her time on the basketball court, Harris said she’s looking forward to taking advantage of the idyllic climate. “A lot of people don’t go there during their whole life,” Harris said. “I’m just going to soak it all in. I’m always cold and have a hoodie on. “This weather is going to be just perfect.” Unlike most freshmen orientations, Harris’ will include a canoe trip around the campus and surrounding areas to soak in the atmosphere. Other campus activities Harris said she couldn’t wait to try include snorkeling and surfing. “I want to try to get surfing lessons in,” she said. “I hope I don’t have too much fun and stay focused on what I chose to study in school.” Before she heads off to the dorms, Harris said her family plans on taking advantage of the land of sea and sun with a vacation in paradise for two weeks. “I’m just so excited for the trip,” Harris said. “Getting there and then getting on the beach will be great. “I just can’t wait for this new opportunity.” Fans can keep up with Harris and the Vulcans’ basketball squad by visiting vulcans.uhh.hawaii.edu/sport and selecting women’s basketball. You can reach Sports Writer Sue Teggart at steggart@candgnews.com or at (586) 279-1107. |
