Dig, set, design: Elle Cotton excels from athletics to academics

Dig-Set-Spike is the foundational sequence in volleyball involving a controlled pass (dig) of a hard-driven ball, a precise second hit (set), and a powerful attack (spike).

A similar three-word sequence exists at Boise State's student-run product design firm, studio\Blu: "Design-Create-Launch." This foundational sequence is how studio\Blu develops the next generation of Idaho's leaders, like senior student-athlete Elle Cotton. It also describes Cotton's journey while at Boise State.

As a key player for the Boise State women's volleyball team, Cotton is used to performing under pressure. As an engineering student, her experience on the court and her time at studio\Blu's New Product Development Lab directly informs how she thinks, solves problems and prepares for a career after volleyball.

Success across the court

Elle Cotton has embraced opportunities to transition roles on the court. Photo provided by Boise State Athletics

That willingness to step into any role didn't go unnoticed. In her senior season, Cotton earned CSC Academic All-District honors while making a name for herself on the court. She finished with a team-high 33 aces and ranked second on the team with 589 assists. She was also one of just four Broncos to compete in all 119 sets.

Engineering PLUS: a flexible, hands-on program

Much like her athletic journey, Cotton's academic path didn't follow a traditional path. Cotton arrived at Boise State in 2022 with a strong science background and interest in the outdoors, but she was unsure of which major to pursue.

"I was really interested in Environmental Studies at first, but the paths to that degree didn't really lead to a career I wanted to do," Cotton said.

Cotton also needed a degree program that was flexible enough accommodate the typical student-athlete schedule - travel every other week for three to four days at time, weights, class, practice, treatment, meals, and time for homework.

A meeting with her academic advisor led Cotton to explore the College of Engineering's Engineering PLUS (or EPLUS) program, which would allow her to combine her environmental passions with an engineering degree.

"Volleyball taught me how to lead when the pressure is on. Engineering demands those same skills."

Elle Cotton

The Engineering 180 introductory course solidified her path forward. In the course, Cotton's team designed and created a handwashing station for an amputee, an experience that reframed what engineering could be.

"I think improving athletic performance, sustainability, and helping those with disabilities are awesome avenues for my career," Cotton said, "and in my time in Engineering Plus, I've been able to experience and work hands-on with projects that encapsulate all of those passions."

Cotton received additional hands-on design experience at studio\Blu, where she worked with real-world clients on high-tech solutions.

For Cotton, the connection between volleyball and engineering is direct. The parallels show up in how she approaches teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. On the court, every player has a role. In engineering, she sees the same dynamic.

"Volleyball taught me how to lead when the pressure is on," Cotton said. "Engineering demands those same skills. Whether it's a match point or a project deadline, you have to stay calm, trust your team, and keep moving forward."

A future in life-improving design

Elle Cotton poses in the New Product Development Lab, a branch of studio\Blu, that connects students to design work with manufacturing clients across Idaho. Photo by Priscilla Grover

In 2025, Cotton was named one of Boise State's Outstanding Engineering Juniors for EPLUS, an award from the Idaho Society of Professional Engineers.

"Students like Elle help to bring additional perspectives to the College of Engineering community. With her athletic background, she helps to bring a level of discipline and insight to class that other students may not have considered," said Courtney Hollar, program director for the B.S. in Engineering Program and clinical assistant professor. "I have no doubts that Elle will be a successful engineer in whatever field she selects."

Cotton graduated this spring with her Bachelor of Science in Engineering with minors in Applied Mathematics and Environmental Studies. A product of the flexible nature of EPLUS, Cotton was able to combine her experiences and passions for a career path built around her interests.

"I have no doubts that Elle will be a successful engineer in whatever field she selects."

Courtney Hollar, program director for the B.S. in Engineering Program and Clinical Assistant Professor

After graduation, Cotton is considering a future in design or graduate school, with an interest in creating solutions that improve lives. She says she's drawn to projects that combine human-centered design with performance, accessibility and sustainability, from adaptive recreation equipment to innovations that enhance athletic performance.

Cotton describes her time at Boise State as a transformative experience, one that extends beyond the court or the classroom.

"It's been an incredible mix of athletic, academic and personal growth," Cotton said. "I'm proud to be a Bronco, and I always will be."

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