FOSTER CITY, Calif. --- Playing music, learning about the bible, and challenging herself to improve in the pool. Kalyn Chang is looking forward to pursuing all these interests and more during her time at Biola University

The younger sister of Biola's record holder in the 100-yard backstroke (Nicole Chang), Kalyn is an accomplished swimmer in her own right. She earned All-Peninsula League honors in 2019 and brings times to Biola that will serve as a great foundation for helping Ryan Kauth's team continue to excel in events like the 100-back.

But Chang's excitement about joining Biola's swim team is matched by how excited she is to grow as a person in the university's learning environment.

"I'm excited to go to Biola because it provides a Christian environment where I know my faith will grow stronger and be supported. Also, I chose Biola because it has a low student-teacher ratio, it allows me to major in kinesiology, and it lets me take Bible classes which are really interesting to me," said Chang. "I'm also excited for collegiate athletics because I love challenging myself and improving, and because the community [on the swim team] is so tight-knit and a great way to build close friendships."

Although Chang's senior season was shortened by COVID-19 cancellation, the San Mateo High-graduate was still a staple at CIF competitions for the Bearcats in recent years. She swam in multiple relays at the Central Coast Section meet over the past two seasons while demonstrating the ability to peak in her individual events come championship time.

Chang's season best in the 100-back as a sophomore and as a junior came at the CCS Championships. And her time of 1:00.94 at the 2019 sectionals established a new personal best after she swam a half-second faster than her sophomore performance. 

Away from the pool and studies, Chang volunteers at her church regularly and coaches the Peninsula YMCA Orcas swim club. She was also recognized by the Positive Coaching Alliance with a Triple Impact Scholarship for how much she has contributed to making herself, her teammates and her sport better.

Kalyn Chang will major in kinesiology at Biola and hopes to become a physical therapist at a VA outpatient clinic. More information on the incoming 2020-21 class that will join her at Biola can be found on the Committed Athletes page.