Tessa Taylor

Why FSU?

I chose to attend FSU when I heard about the master’s in Athletic Coaching program. The online format made this program accessible for me. I coach cross country and track at Frostproof Middle Senior High School, and I take my role influencing the next generation seriously and desire to do so in a positive and effective way.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

There are thousands of youth coaches in our country who have little to no training in best practices for serving their athletes. I coach 12-18 year old track and cross country athletes and desire to be part of a group of coaches seeking education to help us become the leaders our student-athletes need.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

I am developing a network for females at FSU Coach. Female coaches are in the minority in both the college and high school level. Only 33 perecent of high school (Zippia, 2021) coaches are female, and only 43 percent of collegiate women’s sports are coached by women (WeCoach, 2023). The goal of this network is to help provide support and encouragement to female coaches in a profession where women are the minority.

Career aspirations

Currently, my career goals are to continue to coach at my local school. I want to learn and grow as much as possible to better serve my athletes.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

I am 40 years old, and enrolling in graduated school at this stage of my life and career has been very rewarding. You are never too old to continue your education!

Accomplishments during graduate career

I have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my graduate career. I am developing a network for female students, alumni, and faculty in the FSU Coach program: FSU Coach Women. I am a Finalist for the 2024 Graduate Student Excellence in Visual Arts Award, and I have received the Kuras-Taylor Memorial Fund Scholarship, Janet Wells and Billie Jones Endowed Award Fund in Pedagogy, and the Margaret Spearman Parkman Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Hobbies and interests outside of school

I enjoy spending time with my family. We love all things outdoors, including running, hiking, and sitting around a bonfire. I also paint when I feel inspired.