July 22, 2026
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Choosing a college major isn’t always easy, but for Terrance Harris, one visit to Youngstown State University (YSU) helped shape his future.
While attending YSU’s Athletic Training Camp as a high school student, he discovered a profession that combined healthcare, sports, and helping others and ultimately inspired the career path he follows today.
During YSU’s Athletic Training Camp, dozens of high school students from Youngstown and the surrounding communities spent an afternoon learning hands-on skills such as CPR, spinal immobilization, proper hydration, and interprofessional communication.
The experience introduced Harris to athletic training for the first time and gave him a closer look at a profession that combined healthcare, sports, and helping others. Harris said, “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do.” By the end of the camp, Harris realized athletic training was a career that matched his interests.
The Y Star Scholarship helped Harris begin his journey at YSU by covering the cost of his undergraduate education. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science before continuing into the Master of Athletic Training program, where he continued building the knowledge and hands-on experience needed for his future career.
Students interested in following a similar career path can also take advantage of YSU accelerated pathway, which allows them to complete a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and the Master of Athletic Training program in just five years.
One of the most valuable parts of the Master of Athletic Training program is the opportunity to gain real-world clinical experience. Throughout the program, Harris worked with high school and collegiate athletes, applying what he learned in the classroom while gaining experience alongside healthcare professionals.
What started with a high school Athletic Training Camp came full circle when Harris was selected as the student speaker for YSU’s Spring 2026 Commencement. Now, as a proud graduate of YSU’s Master of Athletic Training program, he’s ready to take on the next chapter of his career.
Inspired by Harris’ journey? Whether you’re exploring career options or already know athletic training is the right path for you, YSU offers hands-on learning experiences that. Learn more about the Athletic Training program at Youngstown State University (YSU) – Bitonte College of Health and Human Services.
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