Every athlete dreams about someday representing their country in the Olympics.
A native of the former Soviet Union, Chernyak placed well enough at the Olympic tryouts to earn a spot on the U.S. team. However, she was unable to compete because she did not receive her U.S. citizenship in time. Though disappointed at the time, Chernyak now realizes that not competing may actually help her in the long run. In 1996, I won't just make the team, but I will also be able to strive for a certain result. I'll know what I can expect.