Getting a master's degree from Castleton was always part of Abby Mayo's plan as a student in the Pre-AT + Master of Athletic Training program, which allows students to complete their bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years.
"I was drawn to healthcare to help people and stayed at Castleton because Castleton helps me. My connection to Castleton has a lot to do with the community and how much support those in it have given me," Mayo said.
The main difference she has found between graduate and undergraduate courses is that the topics covered become much more focused and advanced.
"We take specific classes with our advising professors, then get to apply many of the skills we learn in the classroom to our clinical placements," Mayo said. "We've become a tight-knit group since beginning the Master's program."
Mayo is grateful to the many people in the Castleton community who have helped her achieve academic success.
"My favorite thing about Castleton is the way our community feels. It's like its own little world in a small town. I've lived in Vermont for 17 years, and I feel like Castleton is my favorite place in the whole state," Mayo said. "Castleton's community is kind, accepting, and hardworking. I feel seen and heard in my community in a way that is unique to our campus. I can get involved anywhere, learn anything, and be supported when the going gets hard.”