Decisions, decisions.

Wareham High School senior Aliyah Alley was offered full-ride scholarships to a number of colleges, but turned them down in favor of a partial scholarship to UMASS Lowell.

"[The decision] was based on the program they have there. They have a really good science program," said Alley, who plans to head  to medical school once her undergraduate studies are complete.

The track program also caught the eye of Alley, who recently broke her own record in the 100m dash for the second time this year, and is hoping to improve her time in the 400m.

"I don't know what they do there, but they produce amazing 400 runners," said Alley.

Wareham High School principal Scott Palladino held a small ceremony to recognize her accomplishments, and allow the press to ask her questions.

He noted that Alley's intense work ethic has driven her to the top of her game in both athletics and academia.

"The intensity wasn't just left on the field, the intensity was in the classroom as well," said Palladino. "I'd be fearful of participating in any athletic event against her, because she is intense," he reiterated.

Her coach, Christopher Gardner, has coached Alley since her freshman year and watched her grow from someone who wasn't even sure she liked track, into a top-notch runner who represented Wareham at nationals during the 2012-2013 winter season.

"She's the epitome of someone who gets the most out of her talent and ability," said Gardner. "It's going to be hard to replace her."

Some of her fellow runners were also on hand for the event, and they praised her drive and dedication as well.

"As both a student and an athlete she's very dedicated. She doesn't want to let anyone down," said junior Mackenzie Connell, who runs track for the boys team. "She really wants to make her family proud."

Chelsea Anderson, who runs for the girls team, said that Alley is a leader who other people on the team can look to for pointers.

"She's a good athlete and her loyalty to the team shows," said Anderson. "She teaches the younger generation."

Alley said that her family is part of what drove her desire to become a doctor.

"My family has a big medical history, and if I could give back to other families it would mean a lot," said Alley.

There are only a couple of meets left this year, including states, and true to her intensely competitive nature - although she notes her biggest competitor is herself - Alley hopes to break her own record in the 200m before the season is done: "It's going down."

Spoken like a true contender.