I worked as an athletic trainer for four years but had to step away from the profession due to a cross-country move that left me without the support of my professional network. After working odd jobs in medical offices, I decided to attend massage school, where I rediscovered my love for helping people in pain. Thanks to my knowledge of injuries and the musculoskeletal system, I excelled as a massage therapist. However, I always felt that I could do more.

Many years had passed since I worked as an athletic trainer, and I often felt like an imposter. I believed I couldn't return to the field because I had been away for too long. However, the pandemic forced me to reflect on what I truly wanted. I realized that I wanted to get back into athletic training. Through a Google search, I found ATSU’s Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) program. I decided to return to school and learn updated injury prevention and rehabilitation information. I thought that it would be the best route to rejoining the profession.

I chose A.T. Still University because of the convenience of the online coursework and the ability to take courses at my own pace. The information I've learned in this program has inspired me to leave my job as a massage therapist. I currently work at a university covering three different teams, and I love every minute of it. I've enjoyed discussing the new concepts I'm learning with my colleagues and practicing recovery ideas and techniques with my athletes. Thanks to the DAT program, I have become a well-rounded healthcare provider. ATSU has helped me get my athletic trainer groove back.