Balancing Education and the Game with Madi

Transcript

Balancing academics and athletics is no small feat, but Madi proves it’s possible to excel at both. A senior in elementary education with a math focus, Madi transferred to upper Iowa University for its supportive coaches, flexible academic sessions, close-knit community. Now she’s thriving as a student athlete, graduating early and preparing for her future. Tell us all about it, Madi. Take it away.

– Thanks on introduction, Alex. Hey, everyone. I’m a math education major and student athlete here at Upper Iowa University, but my story starts in St. Louis, Missouri where I grew up loving both sports and school. Education has always been so important to me and so is playing volleyball at a high level, so I’m super happy to call UIU home. I transferred to UIU after playing volleyball for two seasons outta school in the South. And while leaving my old school wasn’t easy, I knew I needed a fresh start. What drew me here was the combination of athletics, academics, and community. Once I met the coaches and learned about their focus on culture and athlete development, I knew I found the right place. UIU’s eight-week session format has also been life changing. This allows me to dive deep into my classes while also balancing practice, travel and games. Because of this structure and some advanced placement credits from high school, I’ll actually be graduating a year early. My professors have been so supportive, helping me balance athletics and academics, and my teammates have become like family. That tight-knit support system has made UIU feel like a home from day one. As Iowa’s only NCAA Division II school, UIU offers a really unique student athlete experience. The competitive level of the Great Lakes Valley Conference drew me here, but it’s the close-knit campus, coaches, and student support services like tutoring in the Writing Center that make it so easy to succeed both in the classroom and on the court. Upper Iowa University has prepared me for the next steps in my journey. I’ll be student teaching this spring and then be working towards my master’s degree as I pursue my love for coaching and teaching. My time here has taught me balance, resilience and leadership. Well, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.

– Big S on 3. 1, 2, 3!

– [All] Big S, ooh!

– Incredible, Madi. Your story shows the strength of UIU’s supportive environment from flexible eight-week classes, to professors and coaches who champion student success. As Iowa’s only NCAA Division II school, upper Iowa University offers student athletes, like you, a chance to compete at a high level while excelling academically. Congratulations, Madi, and go Peacocks.