WritingHERstory: Carmen Weiler’s Record-Breaking Journey

Before records or national anthems, there was water. For Carmen Weiler, the pool has long been both a place of discipline and belonging. Raised in her hometown of Singapore with a Spanish mother and German father, Carmen was introduced to swimming at a young age, and it quickly turned into a lifestyle. The sport has remained a constant in her life, following her from Spain to Blacksburg, bringing her through local meets all the way to international stages. Now a senior here at Virginia Tech, Weiler is one of the most decorated athletes in women’s swimming history, but her story is about much more than medals.  

When reflecting on her journey, Weiler explains that her identity was formed long before college. It began in the classrooms, communities, and cultures she experienced growing up in Singapore. 

“I moved to Singapore when I was really young. I grew up there my whole life, and Singapore is interesting because there are so many people from so many different places. You get to meet people from all over the world. I went to international schools, and there I was introduced to so many different cultures and traditions, which I think has also become part of my identity today.” 

Weiler arrived at Virginia Tech with elite talent and an international perspective shaped by years of competing for Spain. Transitioning to life in Blacksburg meant more than adjusting to a new campus or training schedule; it required navigating cultural differences, balancing academic expectations, and continuing to perform at a high level. When thinking of where home is, it has always been a difficult question for Weiler. 

On the international stage, Weiler represented Spain at the World Aquatics Short Course Championships, where she helped secure three Spanish national records, a milestone that situates her collegiate success within a global athletic context. Yet while her success was an accomplishment, Weiler remembers her best memories coming from the atmosphere at World Aquatics and the culture surrounding the competition. 

“It was honestly a surreal experience. It was so fun. Getting to meet so many different people from all over the world. The atmosphere was amazing. I remember for one of my semifinals, it was just crazy how loud the crowd was, and I've never experienced something like that. It didn't make me feel more nervous, but more so excited. I made sure to take in every moment of it.” 

As an international student-athlete, Weiler represents a growing group of women whose collegiate careers unfold across borders. Her experience showcases adaptability and resilience, qualities that have defined her both in and out of the pool. 

With outstanding international accomplishments, her competitive résumé through Virginia Tech speaks for itself. Throughout her time in Blacksburg, she has delivered consistent top finishes in sprint freestyle and backstroke events, setting personal bests and contributing to program-defining performances at invitational meets and ACC Championships. Each race adds another layer to a legacy still in motion. 

Balancing national pride with collegiate responsibility brings unique challenges. For Weiler, her success is not only defined by times and placements, but by the relationships she has built with her teammates and her coach, Sergio. 

As a woman competing at the highest levels of swimming, Weiler shows us a place where strength and vulnerability coexist. The discipline behind elite performance often goes unseen, yet it is central to the identity she continues to build through the sport. 

“I think my first two years here were definitely more challenging than my junior and senior years, because the transition of moving countries and being away from my family was a big change. It's a lot of changes at once, which is why I think I struggled a little bit to start with, going from swimming in meters to yards, changing countries, changing coaches, training styles, and going from a small team to a team of 80 people. I had to find my way, and it took me a little bit longer than some people.” 

Within the Virginia Tech program, Weiler’s impact goes beyond individual races. Her leadership, consistency, and presence have helped elevate the Hokies on both conference and national stages. One of her fondest memories so far at Virginia Tech was the 2025 NCAA Championships, a moment that reflected not just personal achievement, but collective joy. 

“Placing at NCAA last year, I remember saying to my teammates, I really want one of those little trophies they have. I remember swimming in the morning; it was 100 back, and I wanted the best time. We were waiting for the last people to swim so we could see if I made it. Then they put up the final like times, and I was eighth. We were all so happy. All my teammates were so happy for me. We started jumping and screaming.” 

As her career continues, Weiler remains focused on growth, as an athlete and as a person. Her journey is still unfolding, guided by commitment, adaptability, and a deep connection to the sport that started it all. As a confident woman, Weiler credits her best accomplishments, memories, and trophies to her team, continuing to find her way in her new home, Blacksburg, Virginia. 

“I feel like the team is the best part, the memories you make, and your teammates genuinely supporting you.” 

Carmen Weiler’s story is one of movements across lanes, borders, and stages. Today, she celebrates not only her records but the resilience, identity, and relationships that define her journey.