Though this was not my final class for the program, I do appreciate the ability to reflect on what I was able to learn through my time in the program so far. Looking back on work that I had done for my first winter mini-mester sport psychology course to this capstone experience was a great way to have a chance to remember all that I have learned in one giant take. I do feel like I have learned a lot about a field I had only been able to touch on in my past academic endeavors.

As can be seen in my background information and resume and CV sections, this is not my first time in graduate studies, but it was my first time in a program focusing only on administration. I had been given the opportunity to take courses in the athletic administration masters program at The University of Oklahoma when working my cognate courses for my Ph.D., and I really was hoping to complete the program at that time, however an early graduation and career opportunities left me unable to do so. I was really excited when time and financial situations changed a bit allowing me to start this program at East Texas A&M. I cannot say enough for student loan forgiveness for educators! Having started to coach athletics again along with this opportunity gave me the change to take this chance with a hope to be able to use the degree in the future with a position in a district athletic office.

When looking back a the course work, I would have to say my favorite classes were statistics and public relations and marketing. Both professors were top notch and the content was always very engaging which made learning so easy to really relate to and take in. I also appreciated the chance to touch on the mental health issues we did in sociology as it really made me consider an area of research I wanted to keep up with and potentially use this degree to open some doors with as far as trainings. Last school year our campus had three young men take their lives. All were involved in extra curricular activities and one was a star athlete. It really made me want to work on a program to help these students, but especially student-athletes with the transition from high school to college. Whether they are going into athletics in college or transitioning away from competitive sports, I just do not feel we are doing enough in this area. Post graduation, I really want to dive into this to see if something better can be done, and I believe this degree can help me get my foot in the door.

Overall, I am looking forward to graduation in December and seeing which direction I can go in my career with this program having provided many more doors to knock on beyond even my past education.