I started on this journey as an athletic trainer over a decade ago. I knew from early years in high school that I wanted to be an athletic trainer. That's exactly what I did. I completed my bachelor’s degree in athletic training. Immediately, I knew I wanted to distinguish myself clinically and obtain a Master of Science in Athletic Training. So again, I did exactly that.

Professionally, I have been fortunate to be a secondary school athletic trainer my whole career. I have a great amount of pride and passion in being a secondary school athletic trainer. However, there was a point where I felt stagnant in my career. It appeared to be stale and pale for one reason or another. I was working in a setting that seemed to be leading me to a dead end in my career. I knew if I wanted to change something about myself professionally, I needed to take action. My desire to pursue a Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) was always the forefront of my thoughts when making a decision. I spoke to mentors, peers, and subordinates about my decision and they all gave me varying advice.

What I decided was simple: I love being a clinician and a secondary school athletic trainer. After a period of time, I knew obtaining an advanced clinical degree was the way to go. ATSU’s DAT program rekindled a flame in me that was slowly becoming extinguished. As an individual that is a single parent, a current service member in the United States Army Reserve component, and a full-time athletic trainer, I thought there was no way I could achieve a DAT. This program has ignited a fire inside me that I haven't felt since graduating with my bachelor’s degree. I have become more inspired to disrupt, inspire change, and advocate for the AT profession than ever before. The DAT program has been the most rewarding challenge of my professional career. So, what's holding you back?