Tarryn Bolognani
Athletic Training, '13
Just a few months after crossing the stage beneath the pavilion, diploma tight in her grasps, Tarryn Bolognani landed a job in her intended field.
The 2013 graduate left Castleton with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and is currently employed by the Vermont Orthopedic Clinic in Rutland as an Athletic Trainer and Physician Extender. Bolognani also works as the Athletic Trainer at Otter Valley high school in the neighboring town of Brandon, VT.
"Castleton had a major influence on where I am today. I heard of my job position through one of my professors, Reese Boucher," she said. "Also, staying in the area and knowing some of the other employees already at VOC made the job process more comfortable for me."
In addition to the support she received from her professors, Bolognani's transition into the world of professionalism was eased as she stepped into an office filled with other Castleton alumni.
"I feel that being a Castleton alum, you always have a special connection with other Castleton alumni, and there is always a special place in your heart for the small college," she said.
While at Castleton, Bolognani took on an active role throughout campus. In her four-year career with the women's basketball team, she helped lead the Spartans to both a NAC championship with an NCAA Tournament appearance, as well as the program's first ECAC Regional Championship.
Additionally, she was a member of the Athletic Training Club and participated in Castleton's Right to Play Dodgeball Tournament. After over 41 straight hours of dodgeball, Bolognani and her classmates raised thousands of dollars for sports equipment for children in impoverished countries. They also earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
As a student during one of Castleton's more pivotal periods of growth, Bolognani experienced the university's first football game, new residential and academic buildings, and was in the first class to graduate beneath the pavilion, which marked the culmination of Project 2012.
According to Bolognani, the many opportunities for hands-on experience at Castleton prepared her for her current position in a professional setting.
"I was able to work with many of the Certified Athletic Trainers there, learning different techniques I now use daily," she said.
Due to her proximity to campus, Bolognani can visit often and said she enjoys seeing her former professors and coaches and attending athletic events. For those still in their degree pursuits, she is hopeful that they are taking advantage of all the opportunities Castleton has to offer.
"Enjoy it. Whether you're a student-athlete or student, it flies by," she said. "Pay attention to every detail because you never know when you're going to use it."