Mara Lippman has known what career she wants since she was in the 8th grade, and after a high school tour of UConn, she knew what the best place to pursue it would be. Since then, she’s built connections and skills as a student worker in the CAHNR Office of Academic Programs, and forged so many friendships that UConn’s huge student body feels like the close-knit population of a small school. And as for that career: her high school instincts were correct, and she’ll be staying on as a Husky to pursue a Master’s and Ph.D. in physical therapy.

 

Why did you choose UConn?

I chose UConn because of the sports community and the opportunities that will be available for me as a sports medicine student. I met with Dr. Stephanie Singe when I toured UConn in high school and the environment within the department was so supportive from the start. It has lived up to my expectations.

What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

I study exercise science because I love learning about how our human structure and function works hand in hand to perform specific tasks. I knew I wanted to work in sports medicine since 8th grade and love the opportunity to help athletes get back to performing their best.

Did you have a favorite professor or class?

My favorite class was biomechanics of injury and sport in the fall of my junior year. We got to play with candy and see how they represented different joints and tissue types. Despite it being at 8am, it was a lot of fun.

What activities were you involved in as a student?

While at UConn, I worked as a student administrative assistant in the CAHNR Office of Academic Programs, and I was so lucky to have the opportunity. The office is full of loving and caring staff who I will call family for the rest of my life. Not only did I learn the hard work that goes into advising CAHNR students, but also how commencement, scholarships, and even the website came to light. This student worker position taught me so many valuable lessons about talking to students, parents, and faculty, and I now have skills that I will bring into the professional world. As for other activities, I was not really involved in many clubs or organizations, but I loved attending basketball games with my friends.

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

I expected UConn to feel a lot bigger than it feels. Over the years, the number of connections I have in common with people is very high, so it feels like a much smaller school than it is.

What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

After graduation I am staying at UConn to pursue both my Master’s in Athletic Training and Doctor of Physical Therapy, so I’ll be here for a long time.

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

UConn has provided me with lifelong connections both personally and professionally and has become a home for me.

Any advice for incoming students?

If I was a first year again, I would definitely get more involved in clubs, because it makes finding people so much easier.

What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

Everyone should experience a basketball game in Gampel at least once.

What will always make you think of UConn?

Any time I see a husky out in public I will always call them Jonathan.