Discipline, teamwork, and resilience: three qualities that studying public health and playing college athletics have in common. In the College of Public Health, our student athletes consistently demonstrate these qualities throughout their academic and athletic journeys. This year, three Bachelor of Science, Community Health students—Kamryn Inman, Abbey Murtaugh, and Madyson Taylor — were recognized for their academic and athletic achievements as Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar Athletes. Murtaugh BS’24 MPH’25, a three-time honoree, shared how being a student athlete complements studying public health and the importance of finding a balance between all her obligations.
What drew you to George Mason’s Community Health program? What have you liked best about studying community health at George Mason?
Initially, I joined the Community Health program because I was interested in the pre-physical therapy track under the clinical sciences concentration. During my junior year, I learned about the bachelors-to-masters program (BAM) program, which allowed me to pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies simultaneously, and I decided to apply. I am currently pursuing my Master of Public Health in Epidemiology.
What I’ve liked the best about studying community health at George Mason is the collaborative nature of the program, with plenty of resources available to support student success. The faculty are genuinely invested in students’ growth, and they care about helping us achieve our academic and professional goals.
How have your sports experiences strengthened your skills as a Community Health student?
Through my experience as a swimmer, I’ve learned the importance of time management and resilience. Balancing early morning practices, travel, and competitions with my academic responsibilities has taught me how to prioritize tasks effectively and stay organized. This has been critical in managing my coursework and other commitments. Additionally, the resilience I’ve developed in swimming, especially when overcoming setbacks or tough practices, has helped me approach academic challenges with a persistent, goal-oriented mindset.
What lessons have you learned in your sports career that have applied to your education?
Although swimming is often considered an individual sport, I’ve learned that success relies heavily on team collaboration. Whether training together or supporting each other in academics, my teammates and I share common goals, pushing one another to reach our full potential. This experience has strengthened my ability to work in collaborative settings, which is essential in community health.
What advice would you give to prospective community health students who also want to play college sports?
Balancing academics and athletics can be challenging, but building connections with your professors can make a big difference. Attending office hours, asking questions, and learning about their experiences can help you stay on top of coursework while also opening doors to mentorship and research opportunities. These relationships can also provide valuable guidance as you navigate both your academic and athletic journey, helping you make the most of your time as a student-athlete.