School is back in session, and last year's rookies now find themselves one year older and wiser as they begin their sophomore seasons on the women's gymnastics squad. Last week, Inside the Lair caught up with second-year student-athlete Chelsea Shu for a glimpse at what life as a freshman was like. The series continues this week with Sylvie Seilnacht below, and check back each week for a new Q&A featuring each of the sophomores.

CalBears.com: How did the team retreat in September help you get acclimated to Cal Gymnastics?
Sylvie Seilnacht: It helped me develop a better and deeper relationship with my teammates while simultaneously learning the team culture and what it meant to be a Cal gymnast.

CB: What is the biggest lesson you learned from our coaching staff as a freshman?
SS: I learned that our coaching staff wants what's best for us and for our team, and they work just as hard as we do to make our gymnastics as good as it can be.

CB: What was your favorite meet? Why?
SS: My favorite meet was NCAA Nationals because not only was I able to be a part of going to Nationals for only the second time in school history, but I was also able to compete and help the team cement seventh place.

CB: What surprised you the most about your freshman year?
SS: I was so surprised that I was able to become as close as I am with my teammates in only my first year here. We are definitely a family and I'm so glad to be part of it.

CB: What was your favorite part about your first year at Cal, and why?
SS: My favorite part was the whole competition season. It's such a different environment than club, and being part of a team who pushes you and encourages you to do your best is the greatest feeling.

CB: What is the most useful thing you learned all year?
SS: The most useful thing I learned was how to manage my time. All throughout high school I thought I knew how to set enough time for all of my activities, but I've now realized that it's a completely different story in college. Having the whole year to figure it out will honestly help me in the future.

CB: What is your funniest memory you have from in the gym during your freshman year?
SS: We have so many great, funny memories, but my favorite memory was doing a bunch of fun challenges with our weights coach, Abe, right after season ended because watching everyone try them was pretty funny.

CB: What was your favorite class during freshman year, and why?
SS: My favorite class was a Molecular and Cell Biology class called Drugs and the Brain. It was extremely interesting to learn about the different ways that various molecules affect the way the brain perceives reality.

CB: What are you most excited about for next gym season? What are you looking forward to in your academics?
SS: I'm most excited to get back into season. Competing with my teammates in front of everybody is the most fun feeling in the world! I'm also looking forward to being able to apply to the Haas School of Business.

CB: What advice would you give to your incoming freshmen teammates?
SS: I would say take your time learning how college works and how the team works. Things will fall into place and it'll come together to be the best experience!