Vanderbilt soccer alums stretch far and wide and we’re excited to hear from them about their fondest Commodore memories. Monthly, we feature a former Commodore as Vanderbilt continues to connect Dores past with present.
Major: Human & Organizational Development
Resides: Austin, Texas
Profession: Private Practice Psychotherapist
How did your time at Vanderbilt prepare you for life after college?
Amazingly. I tell people all the time that HOD in particular prepared me so well for the real world. I had such a multi-dimensional education and learned so many facets of work life. That really provided me with such an interest and freedom to pursue various industries before finally going back to graduate school to become a therapist. And now as a private practitioner, I have confidence not only in my clinical skills but my business and entrepreneurial skills as well.
What originally attracted you to Vanderbilt?
My brother went to Vandy so I got to visit him a few times and fell in love with the campus. But it’s hard to beat being one of the top 15 academic institutions AND competing in the SEC.
When’s the last time you were on campus?
I was there in August of 2019 for the Georgia/Vandy football game. I have tried to make it to Homecoming when possible too. Campus has changed dramatically. It has always been beautiful but the addition of the residential colleges for Freshman and the upgrades to the athletic facilities are impressive.
Favorite thing about Vanderbilt?
The chance to get a world class education while also competing in the SEC was an incredible experience. I feel incredibly grateful for my time there and have a deep sense of pride for the university and specifically, the women’s team. And to this day, it’s a consistent conversation starter in personal and professional situations.
Favorite Vanderbilt Soccer moment(s)?
Hands down, it has to be beating Florida at Florida my sophomore year and scoring one of the two goals. My best friend and roomie (Laura Stewart) scored the other one so it was a great day. Having grown up in Tampa, I was heavily recruited by Florida and had so many friends there. So every time we played them my family and friends would come out for the games and it was my favorite non-home game environment. It was an amazing game.
How often do you keep in touch with your former teammates?
For being 20 years removed, we are in touch fairly often. That is definitely where social media shines as it has allowed us to stay connected.
Advice for current players?
I know it sounds cliche but soak up the experience. You have likely been surrounded by friends who also play elite college Athletics so it is hard for you to understand what a unique experience it actually is. And secondly, do not worry if you don’t know exactly what you want to do after graduation yet. It is a real disservice to your age group to expect you to know that right out of the gate. Be open to new and unexpected job opportunities and know your Vanderbilt education will always unlock doors for you. Trust it. Anchor Down!
For more Alumni Spotlights:
–Brittany Thomas, Class of 2015
