Periodically throughout the summer months, Gophersports.com will connect with some of the incoming Minnesota freshmen. This week's edition is Zimmerman, Minn., native Hailey Szews. Swimming with Elk River High School and the Aquajets Swim Club, Szews' primary strokes are the individual medley, the freestyle and the backstroke. A NISCA All-American, Hailey was also an all-state and all-conference selection. Below is her bio and a short question and answer session with the rookie.

High School: 2010 graduate of Elk River High School • swam with the Aquajets Swim Club under Coach Kate Lundsten • A NISCA All-American • named most valuable of her team • has competed nationally at the Junior Nationals, the Short-Course Nationals and the Speedo Series • all-conference and all-state honoree • a five-year letterwinner for Elk River High School • was fourth overall in the 200 IM (a school record), sixth in the 100 back (school record) and fifth with the 400 free relay (school record) at the 2008 Minnesota State High School Championships •  won the 200 IM and finished second in the 100 back, the 400 free relay and the 200 medley relay  • a two-time USA Swimming Academic All-American • enters her college career with a time of 4:20.07 in the 400 IM and 4:59.41 in the 500 free.

Personal: Born June 19, 1992 • daughter of Chris and Vicki Szews • has an older sister, Courtney, and a younger sister, Addie • plans to major in kinesiology.

Gophersports: What are you most excited about starting at the U?
Hailey Szews: I am most excited about meeting new people, being on the swim team and going to football games.

GS:  How does it feel to represent your home state?
HS: Its a great opportunity and I am proud and honored to have the chance to represent the University of Minnesota.

GS:  You listed cooking as one of your hobbies. What is your favorite thing to cook?
HS: I like to cook anything, but I really like to grill and make desserts.

GS: What are your goals for your career at Minnesota?
HS: My goals are to swim at NCAA's all four years and strive for good grades.

GS: What are you up to this summer?
HS: This summer I will be training with Aquajets, hanging out with friends and getting ready for college.