Jessalyn Weaver played for the Hamline softball team from 2008-10, graduating with a degree in Biology. She went on to medical school at the University of Minnesota, graduating with her medical degree in 2016. Weaver is currently finishing her Chief Resident year in internal medicine at Hennepin County Medical Center and plans to start working as a hospitalist at Fairview Southdale in July.


Weaver at her medical school graduation in 2016             

                                                                                                                                                  
Weaver in her COVID-19 gear at HCMC   

As a pitcher for the Pipers, Weaver earned MIAC All-Conference honors in the 2008 and 2009 seasons, and still holds the Hamline school record for winning percentage in a MIAC season, going 12-2 in 2009. The 12 wins was the most in the MIAC of any pitcher that season.
 
Weaver had three seasons with an ERA lower than 2.60, compiling her career-best ERA in 2008 at 2.21. In her three seasons as a Piper she recorded 44 wins in the circle, striking out 259 batters. She pitched 58 complete games and tallied 18 shutouts and five saves.
 
As a team, the Pipers went 73-44 while Weaver was on the team, making the playoffs in both her sophomore and junior seasons, including playing in the MIAC Championship game in 2008.

 

Weaver still plays a bit of softball in the summer and discovered a passion for CrossFit while in medical school, which she says keeps her in shape and fuels her competitive spirit.
 
Take a look at what Weaver had to say about her time at Hamline. 
 
How did your Hamline experience prepare you for what you are doing now?
I took many science courses that prepared me well for medical school. I think the small class sizes and getting to know the professors really helped! Being a student-athlete also really helped me accomplish my goal of getting into medical school. A lot of my medical school interview was spent discussing my experiences as an athlete. I think it shows people (i.e. interviewers and future employers) that you're dedicated, hard-working, and a team player!
 
Who was one of your favorite professors at Hamline?
John Matachek - he taught my first chemistry class at Hamline. I was terrified of chemistry because in high school I was terrible at it. He taught it in a way that was easy to understand. I actually ended up getting a minor in chemistry because of that. Bonnie Ploger is another favorite.
 
What is one of your favorite memories as a student-athlete?
Spring trips to California with the softball team are the most memorable! I really just loved everything about it, even the early morning practices and workouts!
 
What advice would you give to current student-athletes?
Enjoy it! Four years goes by fast. For many of you, it may be the last chance you have to play the sport you love. Work hard and stay focused.