By: Donna Yaffe, Brown Women's Basketball Legend

Why did you choose to attend an Ivy League institution?
 
Although I received a number of Division I basketball scholarship offers from some great schools, I knew that nothing could compare to the combination of obtaining an Ivy League education and also playing competitive Division I basketball.  

How do you feel your Ivy League experience helped prepare you for your career?
 
My Ivy League experience provided me with an intellectual foundation and a work ethic that is invaluable in any career. It also helped me develop a teamwork mentality that is very important in all areas of one’s life.

What is your most memorable experience from your time as an Ivy League student-athlete?
 
Winning two Ivy League basketball championships!
 
How did your Ivy League experience compare to your expectations?
 
It was beyond my expectations...I arrived at Brown as a somewhat naïve 18 year-old and left with a confidence and maturity level achieved through seeing the positive outcome of hard work and commitment both as a student and an athlete.

What would you share with a prospect deciding on attending either an Ivy or non-Ivy League school?
 
I would share that, if you want to be around and learn from some of the brightest minds in the world, while still honoring and engaging your love of basketball and desire to play competitive ball…go Ivy!
 
What is it like when you meet another former Ivy League student-athlete?
 
When I meet another former Ivy League student-athlete, there is immediately a common understanding of the unique and special experience each of us had. There is a sense of instant community and of being part of a very special club.

What does it mean to you to be a Legend of Ivy League Basketball?
 
It is such an honor to be considered a Legend of Ivy League Basketball! There is a part of every serious athlete that FOREVER identifies as an athlete and, in my case, as an Ivy League basketball player. I feel blessed to have been able to make a contribution in a sport that meant so much to me…to be recognized for that by the Ivy League is both exciting and humbling!
 
What are you looking forward to most about the Ivy League Basketball Tournaments?
 
I’m looking forward to the excitement of great ball played at the Palestra, where I played several times over 30 years ago. Of course, I’ll hopefully be watching Brown Basketball in action and being triumphant!

_____________________________________________________________________

Donna Yaffe was a Brown women's basketball student-athlete from 1981-85. She is a member of the 2018 Class of Legends of Ivy League Basketball that will be formally honored during the 2018 Ivy League Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments on Saturday, March 10, at The Palestra in Philadelphia. Purchase tickets at IvyMadness.com. 

ABOUT AUTHENTIC IVY:
Authentic Ivy is Ivy League student-athletes, coaches and alumni, in their own words. Stay tuned to IvyLeague.com for more Authentic Ivy features throughout the 2017-18 year.