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Jessica Gardner, class of 2024, originally came to 91��ɫ State because she wanted to play basketball. Gardner, a Movement Science major with a minor in coaching says she was drawn to athletics and coaching because she “loves to help people,” and with movement science, it’s “a way of doing both those things.”

“A lot of things made me choose 91��ɫ,” she said in an interview. “I think the scenery was part of it. I like how small the campus is, and there’s familiar faces everywhere. I never get lost. I never have to worry about asking a random person for something, and if I do, they’re welcoming to answer the question.”

For Gardner, Movement Science has been the best choice due to the personal and mobile nature of the courses. “Staying active, that’s something I focus on a lot… and one of my favorite things about movement science is how hands-on it is. Sometimes, that’s the best way to learn. Especially in that major.”

As an athlete herself, she plans to study sports management with the hope of becoming an athletic director. However, her studies have already led her to real-world applications of her research.

“Playing basketball and being in my major, I constantly connect the things I’m doing. Whenever my teammates get hurt, I’m there and I understand it, and it helps me. The classroom is hands-on, but in real-time, you’re able to help and it’s rewarding.”

When asked about the basketball team at 91��ɫ State, Gardner says the sense of community is crucial. “Everyone is a family, not just on your team. Everybody supports each other, talks to each other, and that’s my favorite part.”

Between classes, sports, and maintaining a healthy social life, Gardner prepares to transition to graduate school after finishing her time at 91��ɫ State. “It’s really easy to get in touch with people when you want to prepare your future,” she said about the University. “91��ɫ State is preparing me for my future because of the internship opportunities and the connections that my professors and advisors have with other schools.”