Photo by: Scobel Wiggins/Oregon State Athletics
Oregon State Q&A: Mia Erba
July 08, 2024 | Women's Soccer
The 2024 season will be Mia Erba's second as a member of the Oregon State women's soccer team, having been a regular in the team's lineup during her freshman season as a Beaver in 2023. A midfielder from San Jose, Calif., Erba started 11 of her 16 appearances last season, finishing with seven shots (three on goal) with an assist across 920 minutes of action.
She recently participated in a Q&A with OSUBeavers.com about her path to Corvallis and the women's soccer program.
Do you remember the first time you stepped on the Oregon State campus and what it meant to you?
Mia Erba: When I first stepped on the Oregon State campus I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of community. I immediately could see myself living here and felt this was a unique and special place.
When did you know you wanted to be a student-athlete at the college level? What drew you to it?
ME: I started playing soccer when I was four and would always go to my local college soccer camps and games. Ever since I can remember I was inspired by all the college girls and wanted to be just like them. I never thought it was going to be easy, but I also never let myself think I couldn't do it.
What does it mean to you to wear the Orange and Black?
ME: To me wearing Orange and Black and representing OSU athletics is a huge honor. It's something I take a lot of pride in and am very grateful for this opportunity. Our fanbase and community that we bring when we compete is super special and truly helps us compete at the highest level.
If you could pick any other sport to play, what would it be and why?
ME: I would swim if I were to compete in another sport because I grew up race swimming and I really enjoy it. However, at OSU I would want to play basketball because I think it has a similar competitive edge and team aspect to soccer.
What drives you to succeed?
ME: My goals definitely drive me to succeed. I'm very goal-oriented and once I complete one goal I am always looking for the next steps and setting new goals. Additionally, the support from my family and friends helps me stay motivated even when times get hard.
If you could have dinner with three athletes, dead or alive, who would they be?
ME: Serena Williams, Bethany Hamilton and Mia Hamm.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
ME: In 20 years I will be 39 years old and hopefully raising a family and using my degree, working as a pediatric occupational therapist with a focus in kids on the spectrum. I also am committed to always remaining part of the soccer world.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given? And who gave it to you?
ME: The best piece of advice I was given was to always be present. I have found this has really helped me not only enjoy the opportunities I have but also if something doesn't go right being present allows me to not dwell on the past.
Name your favorite things to do in Oregon when you're not playing or studying.
ME: Exploring all the nature from the waterfalls to the beaches, volunteering in the Corvallis community and floating the river.
What are your favorite topping(s) on a hot dog?
ME: I actually don't like any condiments or toppings.
How about ice cream. What do you have to put on it?
ME: Mint ice cream with chocolate sauce and brownie bites.
Your preferred pre-competition meal?
ME: The night before I like to have pasta and chicken, and right before the game I like to have a turkey sandwich with a lot of fruit.
What are your top-three favorite movies?
ME: Remember the Titans, Mama Mia, Miracle.
What's in your pre-game playlist?
ME: My pre-game playlist is a mix of pop to get me hyped but also calmer folk and country to keep me focused.
She recently participated in a Q&A with OSUBeavers.com about her path to Corvallis and the women's soccer program.
Do you remember the first time you stepped on the Oregon State campus and what it meant to you?
Mia Erba: When I first stepped on the Oregon State campus I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of community. I immediately could see myself living here and felt this was a unique and special place.
When did you know you wanted to be a student-athlete at the college level? What drew you to it?
ME: I started playing soccer when I was four and would always go to my local college soccer camps and games. Ever since I can remember I was inspired by all the college girls and wanted to be just like them. I never thought it was going to be easy, but I also never let myself think I couldn't do it.
What does it mean to you to wear the Orange and Black?
ME: To me wearing Orange and Black and representing OSU athletics is a huge honor. It's something I take a lot of pride in and am very grateful for this opportunity. Our fanbase and community that we bring when we compete is super special and truly helps us compete at the highest level.
If you could pick any other sport to play, what would it be and why?
ME: I would swim if I were to compete in another sport because I grew up race swimming and I really enjoy it. However, at OSU I would want to play basketball because I think it has a similar competitive edge and team aspect to soccer.
What drives you to succeed?
ME: My goals definitely drive me to succeed. I'm very goal-oriented and once I complete one goal I am always looking for the next steps and setting new goals. Additionally, the support from my family and friends helps me stay motivated even when times get hard.
If you could have dinner with three athletes, dead or alive, who would they be?
ME: Serena Williams, Bethany Hamilton and Mia Hamm.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
ME: In 20 years I will be 39 years old and hopefully raising a family and using my degree, working as a pediatric occupational therapist with a focus in kids on the spectrum. I also am committed to always remaining part of the soccer world.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given? And who gave it to you?
ME: The best piece of advice I was given was to always be present. I have found this has really helped me not only enjoy the opportunities I have but also if something doesn't go right being present allows me to not dwell on the past.
Name your favorite things to do in Oregon when you're not playing or studying.
ME: Exploring all the nature from the waterfalls to the beaches, volunteering in the Corvallis community and floating the river.
What are your favorite topping(s) on a hot dog?
ME: I actually don't like any condiments or toppings.
How about ice cream. What do you have to put on it?
ME: Mint ice cream with chocolate sauce and brownie bites.
Your preferred pre-competition meal?
ME: The night before I like to have pasta and chicken, and right before the game I like to have a turkey sandwich with a lot of fruit.
What are your top-three favorite movies?
ME: Remember the Titans, Mama Mia, Miracle.
What's in your pre-game playlist?
ME: My pre-game playlist is a mix of pop to get me hyped but also calmer folk and country to keep me focused.
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