Mentors, Movement, and Momentum: The Aggie Kinesiology Experience

Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, along with kinesiology students Ashlyn Norton and Curtis Gatewood for a dynamic conversation on mentorship, opportunity, and the many paths to success in the field of kinesiology.

Alyssa shares how the department is supporting students both in and out of the classroom while encouraging them to explore the breadth of career possibilities beyond the traditional tracks. Ashlyn reflects on the importance of putting yourself out there and connecting with mentors, while Curtis emphasizes how something as simple as a conversation can unlock major opportunities for growth. From strength and conditioning to leadership, mentorship, and professional development, this episode offers an inside look into what makes Texas A&M’s kinesiology program such a powerful launching pad for future leaders in health, sport, and beyond.

Tune in to hear how Aggie students are building meaningful relationships, gaining real-world experience, and shaping their futures through the power of connection and community.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/


Host: Chelsea Reber
Guests: Alyssa Locklear, Associate Department Head for Undergraduate Programs, Texas A&M University
Ashlyn Norton, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University
Curtis Gatewood, Kinesiology Student, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:
(00:00 - 01:49) Introduction
(01:50 - 02:48) Balancing Teaching and Admin
(02:49 - 04:30) Meeting Ashlyn and Curtis
(04:31 - 06:17) Being a Mentor for Incoming Students
(06:18 - 08:24) An Average Day for Curtis
(08:25 - 09:52) Getting into Strength and Conditioning
(09:53 - 12:02) Growing Outside of the Classroom
(12:03 - 13:54) Different Paths of Student Success
(13:55 - 18:11) Overlooked Parts of Kinesiology
(18:12 - 20:46) Favorite Parts of the Program
(20:47 - 22:59) Upcoming Events
(23:00 - 26:51) Advice for New and Current Students
(26:52 - 27:28) Closing