Tanya Chowdary ’24 is joining a group of Wardlaw+Hartridge teammates past and present on the collegiate golf circuit. She made the commitment to continue her academic and athletic careers at Bentley University official during a signing ceremony in the Admission Conference Room on June 3.
The W+H senior, who will graduate next week, was joined by her parents, Manny and Anu, and her sister, Tiya, who plays golf at New York University. Tanya is also pictured with Mike Romeo, Athletic Director, Sarah Honan, Director of College Counseling, and Gerard Gonnella ’89, Director of Admission.
Tanya’s journey to college athletics wasn’t confirmed until just recently, when she learned of an opportunity to compete at Bentley, a Division II program in Waltham, MA just outside of Boston.
“I wasn’t sure I was going to be playing golf in college, but when I found out there were spots on this team, I jumped at the opportunity,” Tanya said. “I love the area and I’m excited to continue my love for the game at Bentley.”
Tanya is grateful to her parents for making many sacrifices to provide opportunities for her to improve as a young golfer.
“When I was young, I was always fascinated by this game but I was never completely at the top,” she said. “Once given the resources from my parents and support from my sister, I was able to refine my game and make it something that I became very good at. I’m really happy I get to continue it at a place that I love.”
Tanya plans to major in business law and believes Bentley is a great choice for her because of the school’s location and size. She’s looking forward to improving her game and contributing to a startup team. Tanya played a key role in leading the W+H girls to state titles in addition to county, prep and invitational tournament championships during her scholastic career.
“Winning states sophomore year was a proud moment for all of us,” Tanya said. “We all felt so together as a team. The joy of winning really got to us. I’ll probably remember it forever.”
Although primarily known for her golf prowess at W+H, Tanya made her mark in other areas. She credits the school for making her a more confident communicator.
“Wardlaw+Hartridge really helped me with my communication,” she said. “Being one of the leaders of Model UN Club helped me hone my leadership and communication skills. The community here really helped me figure out who I am as a person. I have lots of friends here and have a great relationship with my teachers.”
Tanya’s parents were beaming with pride and gratitude at the ceremony. They noted that both daughters share a competitive flair that has fueled their success on and off the golf course.
“We’re a competitive family,” Manny said. “Anything we do, we like to compete and it’s fun for us. I’m happy both girls have that and they’re passionate with whatever they pick up. I hope that quality stays with them.”
“I’m so proud of Tanya and how she overcame all of the challenges she had,” Anu said. “I’m very happy that Wardlaw+Hartridge played a huge role in giving her more opportunities to know who she is. She’s done a phenomenal job and we’ll definitely miss her when she goes to college.”
For W+H athletic director Mike Romeo, the ceremony represented a wonderful milestone for an athlete moving on to the next level and another highlight for Rams athletics and the school’s impressive golf program.
“It’s a special day for Tanya and another great outcome for our athletic program,” Mr. Romeo said. “Tanya is a Wardlaw+Hartridge student with many talents and a great personality. I’m extremely proud of the fact that the school is producing college level athletes.”