Schmitt's journey in swimming took off when she started training with Bob Bowman's group in high school in 2006. Michael Phelps, the legendary US swimmer, played a crucial role in her development. Schmitt recalls how Phelps believed in her and helped her reach the highest levels of the sport.

Achievements and Awards

Throughout her career, Schmitt has received numerous accolades. In 2019, she was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. She also received the Perseverance Award at USA Swimming's 2015 Golden Goggle Awards. During her collegiate career at the University of Georgia, she won the Honda Sports Award for swimming in 2013.

Schmitt's high school years were equally impressive. She was named Michigan State High School Female Athlete of the Year in 2008 and Michigan High School Swimmer of the Year in 2006 and 2007.

Personal Life and Interests

Outside of swimming, Schmitt enjoys scrapbooking, photography, playing outdoor games, and board games. She is also a student of psychology at the University of Georgia. Her family has a strong sporting background; her older brother Derek swam for Ohio University and the University of Pittsburgh, while her younger sisters Kari and Sara played ice hockey at Ohio State University.

Mental Health Advocacy

Schmitt has been open about her struggles with depression since the 2012 Olympic Games in London. She revealed that it took her two years to talk about it openly. In May 2017, she was named an honorary chairperson of SAMHSA Health Awareness Day alongside Michael Phelps. The event focused on mental health issues among children and young adults.

Career Break and Return

After competing at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Schmitt took an extended break from competitive swimming to focus on gaining a master's degree in social work. She returned to training full-time in January 2018 and resumed competition that April.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Schmitt plans to continue focusing on swimming while also preparing for a career path after her athletic career. She has worked as a volunteer swim coach and counsellor at Arizona State University as part of her master's degree programme.

Schmitt's journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication both in and out of the pool. Her contributions to mental health awareness and her achievements in swimming continue to inspire many.