However, when she entered the preseason Cara did not what to expect as she entered a program that has witnessed just eight losses in the last five years and was the defending NCAA national champion.
"I really didn't know what to expect when I came here," she said.
"I just wanted to practice hard and play well with the team.
"I didn't really think I would get the opportunity to start with all the good players here but I am glad I have gotten the opportunity to play."
Although she might not have expected to be called upon so early in her career, Smith has answered with astounding results.
This past weekend, in fact, she was named the most valuable player in the Lions Penn State Classic, in which the Lions emerged victorious in their three matches.
"Cara hit really well and had seven blocks against a good team," Penn State head coach Russ Rose said.
The freshman had 10 kills in her match against Fairfield and appears to be feeling right at home in a Lion uniform.
It has taken a little more than a month for Smith to move into a starting role.
Rose, however, is quick to point out that Cara and the team have a long way to go before anyone can be excited.
"We've got some young players and we have some players playing some different positions and it's going to take some time for us to gel as a team but were going to do the best with what we have," he said.
Over the past two weeks, Rose stressed the fact that he wanted to get a lineup he could feel comfortable with when entering the Big Ten.
Rose must have found his magical lineup with his current group.
Though some players on the Penn State squad stood out more than others, Smith was a rookie and was just getting her feet wet to college life.
However after a lot of hard work in the gym and solid play this past weekend, Smith's performance Saturday has obviously proven that she will be one of those players that most opposing teams will have to watch out for in the Big Ten.
And they'll have to be ready for her each time they play Penn State.
Penn State will look to Smith this season to keep the momentum going and perform up to her potential.
"I think we definitely got used to our lineup," Penn State sophomore middle hitter Mishka Levy said.
"I think were more comfortable with each other but still have a ways to go," she said.
Penn State might have a ways to go to get where there want to be, but it is still the beginning of the season.
Smith has been a dependable player, though, and will most likely be looked to for leadership and reliability as the Lady Lions look for another championship title this season.
Smith has already already proven herself to her teammates and to Rose.
She's gone a long way in a short time here as a Lion.
