What is your major and why did you choose this pathway?
I am pursuing a Master of Science and majoring in athletic training. I originally went to college to wrestle. I was coaching and my skills were good but needed to be better. This would help make me a better coach. I found a program in Kansas at Cloud County Community College that was about to start its inaugural year and joined as a walk-on. I worked and earned a scholarship in the second semester. I was using aspects of athletic training to understand the body's weaknesses, strengths, and recovery methods. I started helping my teammates by sharing my knowledge. This sparked the idea that I could do the same back home. I could use the athletic training path to help more of the future generation in every sport than just the athletes I coach in wrestling.
Did you enroll in college immediately after high school? Why/why not?
I was in the Hoop of Learning program in high school which allows high school students to take college classes as electives. After graduation, I enrolled in classes at Scottsdale Community College. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do as a career, but I knew it was important to continue my education while I figured it out.
What was your freshman or first-year experience like?
I struggled during my first year in college after high school because I was too nervous and shy to ask questions. I didn’t contact the teacher or any of my classmates for help. Also, I didn’t take full advantage of the tutoring center for similar reasons. Looking back, I made it harder for myself by not breaking out of my shell.
What challenges have you faced and how have you overcome these challenges?
The challenge I faced during my associates was moving to another state for a chance to wrestle in college as a walk-on. I overcame this by working three jobs to save money before moving. Physically, I embraced the grind and pushed my body past its limit. This led to me becoming the starting 184-pounder and earning a scholarship. During my undergrad, COVID was happening and made all classes virtual. I had to learn hands-on skills virtually. I overcame this by studying these skills and practicing with my family members. A challenge I faced during my master’s was being on probation and almost failing out of the program. I failed a class because of a technicality. This brought down my GPA and placed me on academic probation. I overcame this challenge by studying hard, getting a job that would help me utilize my skills practically, and applying my skills in real-world situations. I set aside time every day to study and do classwork, I got a job as a PT tech to help me better understand rehab and helped my family and friends relieve the aches and pains by applying my knowledge and skills. My efforts paid off, and I’m back on course to graduate.
What is your favorite thing about this school/college?
In Kansas, I was close with my teammates, but I was constantly busy with wrestling. I didn’t wrestle at ASU but lacked connection because it was all virtual. From the first day at NAU, there was a sense of comradery as we all pursued the same goal. Everyone was bonding and improving each other’s skills. This made learning easier, and I was excited about school and clinicals every day.
What do you plan on doing once you graduate?
This question is on my mind a lot. A master’s degree is a prerequisite before I can take the certification exam to become an athletic trainer. I am still uncertain which level I want to be at. This profession covers high school, community college, university, professional, and industrial settings. Honestly, the clinical sites I’ve been at have been awesome. The best answer I can give is, I’ll be an Athletic Trainer.
How has the Higher Education Program helped you?
I started utilizing the benefits of the Higher Education Program during my second year in Kansas in 2018. During my time in the program, they have helped me lighten the financial burden and focus on school. For 6 years, Higher education has helped me obtain three degrees, change my major three times during undergrad, and allowed me to attend three different schools. Currently, they are helping me with a fourth degree. The staff has been helpful with various opportunities, reminders about deadlines, and checking on how I’m doing. I would not have had all these opportunities and experiences without them. I am extremely grateful for their support on my journey.