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Brian Gonzalez – M.S. in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology 

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One of the main challenges during his first semester in graduate school Brian says was coming to terms with ending his career as a collegiate athlete after completing undergrad.

“I did my best to keep an open mind and try new things that I had previously never given myself an opportunity to do.” 

Brian participated in research projects, held a job at the Bickerstaff Academic Center for Student-Athlete Services as a peer mentor and a job with BUILD as a graduate mentor. He also participated in events held by the Sport and Exercise Club and went to the REC center to workout. Brian also immersed himself in his hobbies, which include playing the guitar and reading. 

“As a result, I found new passions in life and that involved doing research, and it now has become something that I want to pursue and see myself having a career in. I think the most important thing I learned was that it’s okay to be scared of doing certain things. There’s a chance it can be messy the first time, but with the new experience you’ll be able to build from it and get better.” 

Brian says that he considers himself to be very fortunate to have been connected with the people in his cohort and the faculty that are part of the graduate program. “Having that support system helped me navigate the program successfully, develop as a person, and overall have a great experience that I will cherish forever.”