The future looks bright for college senior, Caitlyn Mendik. The humble leader wears many hats. From unique athletic pursuits to going for her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder (CU), Mendik is always on the move. 

“I’ve come to realize that there is a big power in being a quiet leader,” Mendik said. “I take a lot of joy in being able to see other people flourish as well.” 

The college senior can be described as a kind and authentic individual. She sported blonde hair and glasses at the time of the interview. 

Mendik grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Castle Rock, Colorado. Throughout her childhood and until her freshman year of college, Mendik participated in equestrian vaulting. She describes the sport as dance and gymnastics on top of a moving horse. 

Mendik’s interest in biochemistry began in her senior year of high school after participating in the International Baccalaureate program (IB). IB is a unique set of high school programs which can prepare students for a degree in their chosen field. This program, along with encouragement from a supportive teacher, encouraged Mendik to take the leap and major in biochemistry at CU. 

As a self-identified introvert, Mendik said that leadership is not something that has always come naturally to her. As a woman in STEM, she had to work even harder to make her voice heard. 

“Sometimes you have to prove yourself as a woman to be taken seriously,” Mendik said. “It takes a mental toll.” 

Along with her classwork, Mendik spends her time with CU’s mascot, Ralphie the Buffalo. She said that she knew she was ready to attend CU after seeing photos of Ralphie Runners. 

Mendik’s impressive leadership skills and background in equestrian vaulting help with life as a Ralphie runner. Her teammate, lifting partner and friend Claire Applegate speaks highly of her as a representative for the team. 

Applegate said that Mendik always sets the example of academics and teammates coming first on the priority list. 

“She’s inspirational,” Applegate said. “She consistently sets records in the weight room but also sets the expectation on the team of how to excel academically.” 

While Mendik said she loves the energy on game-day, one of her favorite parts of being a Ralphie handler is the sense of community she gains from it. 

Mendik has proven herself as a leader both on the team and in the classroom. She was recently awarded a leadership award from the President’s Leadership Class (PLC). She was nominated by Jessie Kasynski, the assistant director for PLC.

“She puts others above herself in all of her endeavors,” Kasynski said. “She quietly perseveres for excellence in everything that she does.”

Mendik remains reserved when it comes to her accomplishments. She said she is the most proud of being recognized as a leader. 

After graduation, Mendik plans on taking a break from academic endeavors. In the long term she wants to pursue medical school and has an interest in orthopedic surgery. 

“I didn’t realize how much potential I had as an introvert,” Mendik said. “It feels really good to be recognized by the staff of PLC and to see college come full circle.”