Starting today, MiamiRedHawks.com begins a new series called "Getting to Know You", where we will introduce the members of Miami University's women's tennis team every Thursday.

Our series begins today with senior Ana Rajkovic, a chemical engineering major from Belgrade, Serbia. This is Ana's fourth season with the RedHawks, and she leads the team in career singles victories with 62. In her career, she has won singles and doubles titles at the 2014 U.S. Air Force Invitational, was awarded MAC Doubles Team of the Week in 2014, and was named to the Academic All-MAC Team last season.

What led you to begin playing tennis?

Nothing in particular. My best friend at the time started practicing, so I went with her and I liked it. 13 years later and I am still playing it.

Who has been your greatest supporter during your career?

My family. If I had to choose between my parents, I would say that my dad was more involved-he took me to all the tournaments, but I was getting big support from my siblings and my mom, too.

What tennis player has had the greatest impact on your play?

There are several tennis players in Serbia that were at the beginning of their careers when I started playing tennis, and they were the ones I looked up to. Today, they are all very successful. [Novak] Djokovic is number one and is currently dominating, and [Ana] Ivanovic has a bright career behind her and hopefully, she'll continue playing at a high level. Eventually, I took after Djokovic; his mental strength is something I am amazed with and I am trying to learn from him.

What drew you to Miami?

What drew me to Miami was its athletic, but also academic status. I was looking for a school that had both athletic and academic programs that are recognized, since I don't have plans on playing tennis for life. I made my decision when I visited and met all the teammates and coaches. They were, and still are, just great. The beauty of the campus had a little impact on my decision too.

What are your favorite things about Miami?

There are a lot of things I love about Miami. I have met so many great people from all around the world, and I have created some lifelong friendships. Coming here was the best decision I have made. I became more mature, independent and grateful of things I didn't realize how important they were before.

What is your favorite moment from playing at Miami?

My favorite moment happened my freshman year, when we won the MAC Tournament. It was a very tough match, but we really came out as a team. It was even more special because no one from the team, or our coach, had gone to the NCAA Tournament. We ended up playing Stanford, who ultimately won the championship. It was a great experience.

What are your expectations for you and your team this season?

Since we have a young team, I believe that the beginning of the season might be the time for our newcomers to get used to playing college tennis, because it is much different that juniors, since we play as a team. Overall, there is a lot of talent and passion amongst us, so I am looking forward to another successful season, and hopefully one where we accomplish goals that we have failed to in previous years. The goal is to be nationally-ranked and proceed to at least the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

What aspect of your game have you changed the most since last season?

One aspect of my game that I have the most difficulties with is my forehand. Since the very beginning, that was the one things I have focused on. I have changed the way I position for this shot, and I mostly believe that has been the biggest improvement. I feel more confident and I feel like I'm definitely going to use it better.

How would your teammates describe you?

I wouldn't necessarily know-you would have to ask them. But if I had to guest, I would say that they think I am hard-working and sensitive.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I have a lot of different plans for my future, but there are two main things that I would like to accomplish. I want to live somewhere in Europe, mainly because of my family, and to start a family of mine.

QUICK HITS
Favorite Food: Seafood
Favorite Movie: Lajanje na zvezde (1998 Serbian film)
Favorite Music Artist: I don't have one-I listen to a wide variety of music
What Are Watching on Netflix Right Now: El tiempo entre costuras (The Time Between Seams)
Favorite Place on Campus: Conrad Formal Gardens
Funniest Teammate: Hannah Shteyn
Thing You Miss Most About Home: Family and friends