where i was, where i am, and where i want to be
jaci sayen
Events in my life have a common theme: they happened without perfect reasoning but happened perfectly. Call it God’s will, fate, chance, destiny, right place and right time, or flying by the seat of my pants that each significant athletic, educational, and professional opportunity has evolved in this manner.
Beginning with my athletic path, I never thought I would be able to play collegiate soccer. However, during my senior year in high school, I performed well enough to gain attention. I was noticed by the Grand Valley State University’s (GVSU) head soccer coach who was scouting a girl on the opposing team. My father, who was standing near the coach, overheard him asking about me to which he exclaimed, “that’s my daughter!” As a result of this encounter, I was invited to an open soccer scrimmage at GVSU and then offered a spot on the team.
My athletic career then influenced my academic aspirations. The enthusiasm I had for travelling, dining, and staying in a variety of hotels due to our frequent trips sparked my interest in studying Hospitality and Tourism Management. My academic and athletic commitments narrowed the time I had to complete two internship requirements needed to complete my degree, enter the West Michigan Whitecaps who provided me with one job that supplied enough hours to fulfill both requirements. This academic practicum internship not only helped me earn a bachelor’s degree, it also provided me with a path to my future career and introduced me to my future husband.
My academic and career experiences helped me land a position at Michigan State University (MSU) where
my academic curiosity was reignited once I learned about the Master of Arts in Education (MAED) program
in May of 2012. Due to my previous experiences as a student and an athlete a desire was building within me
that wanted to give back to other student athletes who faced similar situations. Originally, my goal was to
pursue a career in higher education and sports management so that I could become a successful and positive
influence in the lives of student athletes (read about it here). Since I gained acceptance into the MAED
program I became engaged to be married, grieved the loss of my aunt, accepted a new position at MSU, got
married, and purchased a home. Throughout the bevy of these life-altering events, my passion and enthusiasm
for realizing my goal of working with student athletes has not subsided and I am determined to explore the
various doors a master's degree can open.
Now, in year eight of my career at MSU, I have had the opportunity to become a positive influence in the lives
of MSU students and volunteers alike. It is through the countless relationships cultivated, the multiple
professional development opportunities offered, and the certifications earned that have inspired me to
continue to evolve both personally and professionally. My goals have expanded as I have considered the
possibility of becoming an adjunct professor in kinesiology. Dr. Andy Driska, instructor of KIN 855, recently
informed me they are awaiting MSU approval to add a full master’s degree in sport coaching and leadership
where he has identified me as, “a person who could coordinate facilities and help to organize the summer
coaching school.” As I reflect on the past few years and my journey to the MAED, what resonates the most
is the realization that I have to be patient and attuned to the ever-present opportunities surrounding me –
then go after them.