In many ways, Mikaela Hopkins is the embodiment of the student-athlete experience. The 2013 all-conference selection is a standout not just on the basketball court, but also in both the classroom and the community where she consistently applies her intellect to philanthropy – whether it’s helping to feed the homeless or raising awareness for cancer.

ETLIVOSDBSNWJOL.20141015175608This time of year, however, Hopkins – a 6-foot-5-inch center from Augusta, Ga. – would prefer to talk about basketball. Less than a month away from her senior season, Hopkins is chomping at the bit to show off some new skills that she’s been honing with first-year head coach Candice M. Jackson and her staff.

“This is the most detail-oriented coaching staff I’ve ever played for,” said Hopkins, who averaged 8.6 ppg and 6.0 rpg in 2013. “They’ve brought things to my attention – in terms of technique and mentality in the post – that I’ve never considered or thought much about. I’m really excited to be playing for them my senior year.”

Read more about this story at College of Charleston Sports.