Masters graduate urges student-athletes to have a plan, a realistic plan

Nora Tuioti-Mariner was very excited to announce that that she successfully completed her master’s degree in Psychology with a Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. And she said, "to put the cherry on top, I maintained and graduated with a 4.0 GPA." This is her story in her own words — and wise advise to all those student-athletes out there, who are getting ready to begin their college careers:
 

This accomplishment is very special to me and honestly wasn’t supposed to happen. Why?

Because in 2014, I became a rare statistic. I was a Division 1 Arizona State volleyball player who gave birth before senior year even began. The arrival of my son meant that all academic odds were now against me and knowing that I had a strict timeframe to complete my senior year under volleyball scholarship rules added more stress to the situation. I remember being completely terrified because I already struggled academically as a student-athlete. It was a very trying time but with the help and support of many people, I was able to conquer those “impossible” tasks one by one. My final semester at Arizona State was the best one academically. I believe this exact moment became a pivotal and monumental moment in my life and how I perceived education.

To all you student-athletes in college, do not take time for granted. Have a plan. A realistic plan. A “Plan-A, Plan-B, Plan-C” plan.  The moment you step onto campus as a freshman, you begin your countdown til’ reality. Your chapter of being an athlete will soon close. And when it closes, you will struggle with finding your self-identity. After all, you’ve been playing said sport for over 10-15 years. Who are you when you hang up the cleats/shoes/jersey? You should never let sports define who you truly are. Take advantage of your sports scholarship and use your bachelor’s degree to your clear advantage. What you invest in now is what your future self will thank you for, long after your sport chapter is closed.

To every young/old mama out there that’s trying to finish school or some type of career goal. Do it… and do it with intention and no regrets. Continue your journey and don’t stop. Make mistakes and keep trying. You should never let fear or the “What ifs” cloud your mind of what you can do with ease. I went from being a low GPA student-athlete to a 4.0 grad student. As clichéd as it may sound, when they say you can do anything you set your mind to, they were right. Make your kids the reason to do what you do and why you do it. If you quit now or every time life gets hard, you will never face adversity. Always train your mind to embrace the difficult mental challenges. It will take time, but it will click for you eventually – I promise.

To my family – my parents and siblings. You all have been a key part in helping me achieve my dreams. Thank you for never judging me. Thank you for ALWAYS being there and providing unconditional love and support. Mom and Dad, this one is for you!

Last but certainly not least, my dearest college sweetheart. My fiancé Steffon Martin. You have been with me since the beginning and never left my side. As soon as we found out I was pregnant, you immediately said, “I will always take care of you” and I will never forget that day in Tempe. Man, I am so thankful for you and blessed to call you as my partner. Thank you for supporting my dreams of achieving a higher education and covering all the bills in the house hahahaha. I love you forever and always babe. Thank you.

Ya girl is officially [Nora Tuioti-Mariner, MS] – whoop!!!!!!!

Nora Tuioti-Mariner graduated from Capella University with her Masters Degree in Psychology Of Science with Specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. Graduation with Distinction, maintained and graduated with a 4.0 GPA. She also holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Family And Human Development from Arizona State University in 2015. 

She’s from a family of 7 children. She’s the daughter of Mrs. Uaealesi Josie Epenesa of Nua & Seetaga, American Samoa and Mr. Max Tuioti-Mariner of Apia Samoa. She has 3 brothers, 3 sisters all athletes and college graduates. She represented American Samoa at the South Pacific Games in 2015 for the American Samoa Women’s Volleyball Team who won the Gold Medal for the first time in history.