This spring, we are celebrating some of our outstanding students who are graduating this semester. We wish all of our graduating students the best as they begin the next chapter of their journeys.

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Name: Tessa Taylor

Hometown: Frostproof, Florida

Program: Athletic Coaching (M.S.)

Why did you choose your program?

I chose to attend FSU when I heard about the Master’s in Athletic Coaching program. The online format made this program accessible for me. I coach cross country and track at Frostproof Middle and Senior High School and I take my role influencing the next generation seriously and desire to do so in a positive and effective way, and the program is helping equip me to do so. There are thousands of youth coaches in our country who have little to no training in best practices for serving their athletes. I coach 12-18-year-old track and cross country athletes desire to be part of a group of coaches seeking education to help us become the leaders our student-athletes need. 

What's your favorite part of your program?

I have loved learning from and connecting with my professors and classmates. I am currently planning on helping one of my professors create a network of female coaches in the program. Female coaches are in the minority at both the high school and collegiate levels and can often feel isolated. The goal of the network is for us to come together to support, encourage, and connect with each other. 

What do you want to do after you graduate?

Currently my career goals are to continue to coach at my local school. I want to learn and grow as much as possible to better serve my athletes. In August, I am working on starting “The Girls Movement” running club at the local elementary school dedicated to championing girls' physical and emotional well-being as they navigate the crucial transition to middle school. I also plan to stay involved in the female coach network and use that experience to support female high school coaches in my region.