Alysen Rieth: Outstanding Master of Science in Athletic Training Student
Alysen Rieth of Lake Havasu City, Arizona is the 2026 Outstanding Master of Science in Athletic Training Student in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. A pitcher on the Black Bears softball team, Rieth was a team captain as a senior. She is completing the accelerated MSAT program, which allows students to earn their bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and physical education and master’s in athletic training in just five years. Rieth is completing the program early after earning her bachelor’s degree in two years. After graduation, she plans to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Loma Linda University.
Why did you choose 91¸£Àû for graduate school?
I chose University of Maine for graduate school because it gave me the unique opportunity to continue playing softball while pursuing my degree in athletic training. Being able to balance my passion for athletics with my academic and clinical development was extremely important to me. 91¸£Àû provided a supportive environment where I could grow both as an athlete and as a future healthcare professional.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time at 91¸£Àû better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91¸£Àû?
I have been fortunate to work with many professors and mentors throughout my time at 91¸£Àû, all of whom have played a significant role in my development. I would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Alicia Lacy, Dr. Christopher Nightingale and Dr. Shannon Wright for their collaboration, guidance, and support throughout my program. Their dedication to teaching and mentorship has helped shape my clinical skills and confidence as an athletic trainer. I would also like to thank Paul Culina from the 91¸£Àû men’s ice hockey program for his mentorship and the impact he has had on my clinical experience.
What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?
Take advantage of every opportunity, both in the classroom and in your clinical experiences. Build strong relationships with your professors and preceptors, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Be outgoing and take initiative — ask to practice and perform skills whenever you have the opportunity, as that is one of the best ways to build confidence and improve clinically. Staying organized and managing your time effectively will also make a big difference in balancing academics, clinicals and personal life.
What has 91¸£Àû enabled you to explore beyond academics?
91¸£Àû has allowed me to explore my passion for athletics while also developing professionally in a clinical setting. Through my experiences, I have gained hands-on skills, built relationships with athletes and staff, and learned how to apply evidence-based practice in real-world situations. Beyond that, I have been able to build meaningful relationships with alumni, fellow softball players, and other athletes, creating friendships and connections that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. It has also helped me grow personally by improving my communication, time management, and confidence.
What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?
I am excited to continue my education and further develop my skills in order to provide high-quality care to future patients in the DPT program at Loma Linda University.
Special thank you message:
I would like to give a special thank you to all of my professors, especially Dr. Lacy, Dr. Nightingale and Dr. Wright, for their guidance, collaboration and support throughout my time in the program. I am also incredibly grateful to Paul Culina and the men’s ice hockey staff for the mentorship and clinical experiences that helped shape me into the clinician I am today. To my teammates, fellow students, and the athletes I have had the opportunity to work with — thank you for the friendships, memories and support that have made this experience so meaningful. Lastly, I want to thank my family and friends for their constant encouragement and belief in me. I would not be where I am today without all of you.