My story isn't just about becoming a therapist and aspiring psychologist; it's about understanding the world of athletes from the inside out. For 17 years, I lived and breathed competition. I chased that dream of a college scholarship, putting in countless hours of practice, facing injuries, and balancing academics with the intense demands of sports. I know the highs of victory, the lows of defeat, and the pressure that comes with competing on big stages. But my journey took an unexpected turn. Just like many athletes, I faced a career transition. While some of my former competitors and training partners are now stars in the WNBA, international leagues, on Olympic rosters, or even analysts on ESPN, I chose a different path – one focused on mental well-being. This transition ignited a passion in me to use my experiences to help not just athletes themselves, but the entire support system that surrounds them. As a doctoral candidate in counseling psychology at the University of Georgia, I'm not just acquiring knowledge – I'm building a toolbox specifically designed for athletes, coaches, parents, and other stakeholders that equips them with the knowledge they need to support athletes’ mental well-being.