Beyond the Jersey: Balancing Radiology and Dual-Sports

Megan Hauser, a second-year student from Lehighton, PA, is pursuing a degree in Radiological Sciences while excelling as a student-athlete at Penn State Schuylkill. Her journey in sports began in second grade when she first started playing basketball and competing in track and field. Since then, her dedication and hard work have earned her notable achievements, including Track and Field MVP, the Lions Award, and recognition as a USCAA Player of the Week.

Choosing Penn State Schuylkill was a natural decision for Megan, as it was the closest college offering both her desired major and the opportunity to continue competing in sports. She appreciates the campus size and housing style, which contribute to her overall positive college experience. Looking ahead, she aspires to pursue a career in radiology within a hospital setting, where she hopes to apply the teamwork and leadership skills she has developed as an athlete. Working closely with colleagues and helping patients will allow her to continue fostering the collaborative spirit she has honed through sports.

Megan's introduction to athletics came through her mother, who encouraged her to try multiple sports at a young age, including cheerleading, gymnastics, soccer, and softball. As she grew, she developed a strong passion for basketball and track and field, driving her to focus on excelling in these sports. Despite her success, one of the biggest challenges she has faced as an athlete is confidence. However, with the support and encouragement of her teammates, she continues to push herself, growing stronger and more self-assured in her abilities every day.

Balancing academics, athletics, and personal life is essential to Megan, and she prioritizes maintaining a structured approach to ensure success in all areas. While academics come first, she emphasizes the importance of creating balance, pushing herself even on tough days to stay motivated and perform at her best. Through her experiences as a student-athlete, she has learned valuable life lessons, including the importance of living in the moment and making the most of every opportunity, as time in competitive sports is limited.

The Penn State Schuylkill athletics family holds a special place in Megan's heart. She hopes to build lifelong friendships, maintain strong relationships with her coaches, and develop close connections with her teammates. She expresses deep gratitude to her coaches for constantly pushing her to reach her full potential and believing in her abilities. Additionally, she thanks the athletic department for their dedication and hard work, which allows her to continue competing at the collegiate level. She also acknowledges the trainers, who play a crucial role in keeping athletes healthy and ready to perform.

Her experience as an athlete has significantly influenced her approach to studying and succeeding in the Radiological Sciences major. The drive and discipline she exhibits in sports translate into her academic pursuits, particularly in working with patients. She aims to provide the same encouragement and support to her future patients as she receives from her teammates and coaches in sports. Megan Hauser's journey as a student-athlete exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court and field.