4 minute read
Balancing Academic Excellence with Athletic Success
University of Pikeville junior Jada Rice is not one who lets obstacles get in the way of her career aspirations. For many students, the transition from high school to college can present tremendous challenges, but for Rice, all that changed once she arrived at UPIKE.
As an incoming freshman, Rice was full of ambition and aimed to be the best student she could be while working toward a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in Spanish. She held the characteristics of a well-informed student. In addition to her studies, she entered the university with an opportunity to play for the women’s soccer team as goalkeeper.
An advisor who saw Riceʼs passion for working in the athletics field pointed her to several programs to help her succeed. At that moment, it all clicked. Rice began to take advantage of UPIKE’s Academic and Cultural Enrichment (ACE) program, which provided her the support she needed to be successful.
“The ACE program helped me to navigate through many things,” said Rice. “They taught me how to set goals for myself and how to achieve those goals.”
Rice displays the drive and determination to continue to learn from others, including her teammates.
“All of my teammates at some point in time have had a positive impact on me,” said Rice. “When I was an underclassman, my upperclassmen teammates made sure that I was comfortable with college life and would encourage me to get better as a student and an athlete, as well as lending a helping hand when needed.”
Rice’s favorite part about competing in soccer is the intensity the sport brings to the table.
“Soccer is so fast-paced, you have no time to think or dwell on mistakes or great plays,” said Rice. “It is all from reaction and what feels right, especially as a goalkeeper.”
The Mid-South Conference recently announced the women’s soccer Academic All Mid-South Conference team. Rice was nominated for a second time as one of 14 UPIKE student-athletes who were honored for maintaining a good grade point average and demonstrating leadership on campus and in the community.
Assistant Professor of Psychology Rachel Messer, Ph.D., says Rice is keeping a near-perfect GPA, serves as a leader in the classroom and on campus, and her work is always well thought-out.
“Jada is a hardworking and motivated student. She is involved in so many activities and still manages to keep a very high GPA,” said Messer.
Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Spanish Ella Smith-Justice, Ph.D., feels Rice makes positive contributions to the UPIKE community.
“Jada is a strong leader among our student-athletes, both on the soccer field and among her peers,” said Smith-Justice. “As a Spanish minor, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for world language learning and for developing her skills in intercultural competence in an appreciative, respectful way.”
Assistant Athletic Trainer Kailey Garten says it has been a pleasure to watch Rice grow throughout her college career.
“Jada always has a smile on her face and a story to tell. She has a wonderful spirit and is constantly laughing,” said Garten. “She has the drive to learn and succeed in her future. I am thankful I had the opportunity to watch her develop over the past three years and flourish.”
Rice feels these individuals have helped firmly shape her UPIKE experience by serving as her mentors.
Rice has goals to attend a master’s program for athletic training and dreams of working at a division I or division II university upon graduation.
“I didn’t find my passion until I came to UPIKE and began working with the athletic training staff as a student assistant,” said Rice. “With a career in athletic training, I have an opportunity to pursue my dreams by helping others and I can continue to be involved with sports.”
Rice believes that UPIKE has prepared her to enter the workforce and face challenges by leading with kindness, compassion and confidence.
“UPIKE provides the necessary opportunities for students to succeed beyond their expectations,” said Rice. “I am inspired to try new things and to always keep moving forward.”
By Stacey Walters
