Timeout: The KEY to Happiness

TIMEOUT! Let’s take a minute to really get to know Jenna Key!

At what age did you start competing in track?

I started competing in track when I was a freshman in high school.

What is your favorite and least favorite event to compete in and why?

My favorite event in track is the 3,000 because it’s the perfect mix of speed and endurance. It’s also much shorter than a 5,000 which is what I tend to race a lot. My least favorite is the mile because it is very tactical. I don’t like to think too much when I run.

Has competing in college always been a dream of yours, or was there a certain moment that you decided you wanted to continue after high school?

Actually no, my senior year I went back and forth until December. When I went on my official visit to LSU, I loved it so much I verbally committed that weekend.

What made you choose LSU?

LSU always felt like home, and I wanted to wear my home state across my chest. I have my whole life to move away, but I did not want to take the opportunity of running for LSU for granted.

What is your favorite thing about being on the team?

My favorite thing about being on the team at LSU is the team culture. LSU is known for their athletics, and so it has been an unforgettable experience to be a part of something with such camaraderie.

How do you manage school, sorority life, and athletics?

This one is tricky. I have to manage my time to the minute almost every single day. I always say you have to have a work-life balance, even in college. If you fill too much in one cup, it’s just going to overflow, and you will be overwhelmed and unhappy. Anytime I feel stressed, I let the stress take its course because some things are just out of my control.

What has been your most meaningful accomplishment yet?

My most meaningful accomplishments was making the SEC team freshman year. At the beginning of the year, I did not see that ever being possible, but I worked my tail off and being there was such a great accomplishment.

Can you tell me a little bit about your relationship with your coaches and teammates?

No other school in the country has a better coach than mine, Houston Franks. Even when the thought of quitting crosses my mind, the words of wisdom my coach has given to me over the past 2 years has been more valuable to me than any award I have gotten. My teammates are my best friends, and we always understand each other because a lot of the time, no one else gets what we go through in a day.

What is your favorite trip you’ve been on with the team?

My favorite trip was traveling to Los Angeles over spring break for a race and a week of fun!

What do you like to do outside of track?

Outside of track, I love nothing more than to be with my close friends.

Who is your biggest role model?

My biggest role model is the swim coach that coached me from the years of 5-15. She taught me everything I know about hard work and discipline, so I always accredit much of my success to her.

What are some of your favorite places to go to in Baton Rouge?

My favorite places in Baton Rouge are Magpie coffee, running around Garden District, and sometimes we like to drive north to St. Francisville to enjoy the outdoors.