GCSU athletic training alumni share their knowledge

GCSU athletic training alumni share their knowledge

Six certified athletic trainers and Georgia College & State University alumni participated in a dynamic panel discussion designed to provide undergraduate exercise science students with practical academic and career guidance. Representing a range of clinical, surgical, collegiate, secondary school and industrial settings, the panelists shared insight into the diverse pathways available within the athletic training profession and the evolving demands of patient care in sports medicine.

The panelists emphasized building a strong academic foundation in the sciences, developing effective communication and critical-thinking skills and pursuing early clinical exposure through shadowing and internships. They encouraged students to engage actively with mentors, professional organizations and interdisciplinary teams to strengthen their professional identity and readiness for graduate education.

Panelists also discussed emerging trends, such as technology integration, evidence-based decision-making and holistic patient management and highlighted the importance of adaptability in a changing health care landscape. Throughout the session, they offered candid advice on navigating certification requirements, balancing academic rigor with self-care and cultivating resilience as future clinicians.

Overall, the panel provided students with clear, actionable strategies to support their transition from the undergraduate level to advanced education and professional practice.

Thanks to these alumni for helping mold the next generation of athletic trainers:

• Ashlyn Alligood ('21, '23), MS, ATC, LAT; GCSU exercise science and MSAT lecturer
• Brittney Hardin ('13), Ph.D., ATC, LAT; GCSU MSAT program director
• Bryce Bishop ('22, '24), MS, ATC, LAT; GCSU assistant athletic trainer
• Clayton Faircloth ('14), MS, ATC, LAT, CF-L1, CEAS II; GCSU MSAT program director of clinical education
• Adriana Acuña ('13), MS, ATC, OT-SC; Emory surgical athletic trainer
• Foster Deariso ('17), DPT, ATC, LAT; director of Sports Medicine, GMC Junior College