What motivated you to stay at MSU for 40 years?
I got the job at MSU and did not plan on staying for more than three to five years. My plan was to get experience and then move back to California where both my husband and I grew up. Many changes happened over the next five years that showed me MSU was special. The MSU family was very welcoming. The people in the athletic department were all on the same page and supported each other. This kind of positive work environment was a significant motivator. Feeling valued and connected to colleagues in the department and across campus made my work more fulfilling and learning that the surrounding communities were a positive environment to raise a family are why I stayed at MSU.
Did you ever experience burnout and, if so, how did you deal with it?
In the athletic training profession, burnout is very common due to the demanding hours and continuous work during sports seasons. It is discussed often in our profession so the awareness to watch for it is there. It is often said that you can’t pour yourself into helping others if your cup is empty. Lionel Rosen, a renowned psychiatrist here at MSU who has worked with our athletes and many other college and pro athletes around the country, gave our staff presentations on the importance of self-care and how neglecting your well-being can ultimately affect your ability to care for athletes.I used a variety of strategies to prevent burnout. One strategy I used to help was to take family vacations to national parks in the summer. It allowed me to completely disconnect from work and be unplugged, which helped me to recharge and return to my job refreshed and ready for a new season.
An additional approach I found valuable was the commitment to lifelong learning. This not only contributed to my growth as a clinician but also served as a protective measure against burnout. The ongoing process of acquiring new knowledge and skills was genuinely invigorating. Exploring and applying these fresh skills when treating athletes was not only enjoyable but also rewarding as I witnessed the positive impact.
Another avenue to prevent burnout is giving back. I strongly believe in contributing to both my profession and MSU. Volunteering for committees or events provided me with the opportunity to meet numerous individuals, and the experience of learning about their journeys and passions was truly inspiring. Building these new connections with a diverse range of people was uplifting, and it had the positive effect of making the campus feel more intimate, as I would frequently encounter familiar faces I had met during my walks around campus.
Practicing gratitude is a good strategy for improving one’s overall well-being and mental health. It can help shift your focus away from negativity and stress, allowing you to appreciate the positive aspects of your life. Your approach of ending the day by reflecting on things you’re thankful for is a great way to incorporate gratitude into your daily routine. Practicing gratitude, especially after a hard day, can be beneficial to preventing burnout.
Can you share a memorable moment or accomplishment during your time here?
I have many memorable moments, including watching athletes achieve incredible accomplishments, watching athletes come back from serious injuries and witnessing the many fantastic games like the Rose Bowls. Those seasons were very special with lots of good memories.One specific accomplishment is establishing the undergraduate athletic training program, as the profession demanded a change from an internship route to an accredited program. Developing the classes and getting the program started and then having so many students who went on to become accomplished athletic trainers is memorable. In addition, I enjoyed working with the graduate students in the Department of Kinesiology for the master’s program in athletic training for many years and watching them gain skills and confidence.
The growth of our athletic training staff from when I started to now is also a major accomplishment. The department administration’s support for the health and safety of our athletes enabled opportunities to hire more athletic trainers, which has provided better health care for our athletes.
What advice would you give to new employees starting their careers at MSU?
MSU offers a multitude of wonderful opportunities, so it’s essential to invest time in discovering what’s available. The MSU community is known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere, so don’t hesitate to seek answers to your questions or request assistance when needed.Moreover, there is a diverse range of courses and programs that provide opportunities for skill enhancement and new connections. The Wharton Center for Performing Arts hosts numerous unique programs and shows that are worth experiencing. Additionally, campus has beautiful gardens, woodlands and the beautiful banks of the Red Cedar River. I encourage you to explore and appreciate these natural areas of campus.
There are also numerous opportunities to establish connections across campus by joining various groups. Attending events is a great way to meet people and foster relationships. Collaborating with individuals from different units can broaden your university network beyond your specific department. I believe that effective communication and collaboration with others are key to becoming an integral part of the MSU community and making you feel part of the MSU family.