SNU Master of Science in Exercise Science Spotlight
Many professionals across Oklahoma are finding the master’s degree program at Southern Nazarene University the answer for furthering their careers and reaching new goals for their professional life. Madalyn Harper chose SNU during the pandemic, allowing her to not only finish her degree, but to continue compete as a collegiate athlete.
“For me, COVID gave me another year of eligibility for cross-country and track, which allowed me to run another year. Conveniently, the kinesiology had just added the 4+1 program that allows undergrad seniors to start their masters during senior year and complete it the following. That was perfect for me, as I still got to compete in my sport another year. The intentionally of the professors and admin to grow Christ-like disciples while preparing their students for real-life scenarios is amazing and unlike any other school,” said Harper.
Currently employed at Western Oaks Elementary School as a third grade teacher for the upcoming school year and serving as an assistant cross country coach at SNU in the fall, Harper said the program at SNU has prepared her for the classroom and the field.
“Although I am a teacher without a teaching degree, my Master’s in exercise science and health has expanded my knowledge on various populations. Within these populations, people always have health and fitness needs that can improve their overall well-being. One specific to me as a teacher is childhood development and health as childhood development both mentally, socially, and physically are very prevalent. Not only this but aiding my students in developing healthy habits of being active that they can take with them. These things can be done in the classroom as well,” said Harper. “As a coach, I strive to help my college athletes in things such as individualized training to help them meet their potential. This program had much emphasis on exercise prescription and creating strength plans that were specific to the individual as everyone’s needs are different. This will allow me to not only work with runners but a variety of individuals in the future. Overall, this degree was very hands-on which provided me many scenarios to practice creating plans, solving scenarios & case studies that were very real life that have prepared me.”
Harper said her time at SNU as a student-athlete was amplified by the number of friends and she made while attending class and competing for the school.
“I have enjoyed building lifelong relationships with my classmates and even professors. These relationships not only gave me people that care about me as a person, but they will benefit me in the professional world when networking and collaborating ideas. I love how the university is encouraging spiritually as well when it comes to having faith in Jesus,” said Harper.
