Alexis Troup

I felt at home and was filled with joy to be there at that given time. As soon as I walked in, I saw my picture on the TV screen, along with a uniform with my future number being on display. It took less than seconds to find a place of belonging when it came to the women’s Penn College basketball team.

After attending a practice and talking with Coach Mohney and Coach Heap, I immediately envisioned myself as a future Wildcat. My older sister was already on the team, but all the other girls welcomed me and took me under their wing. Now it is like I have gained twelve more sisters.

My first day as a Penn College student was a big step for me, but the women’s basketball team got me through that day. I consistently had the girls and coaches checking up on me, making sure I knew where my classes were, and that I was doing okay with the new “college life.”

A key highlight of my day was walking on campus and crossing paths with my teammate, J. The second she saw me, she ran over to me to make sure my day was good and to help me with any questions or concerns I may have. I quickly realized that my teammates would be by my side all the time, and not just during basketball season.

My first time in a uniform unfortunately was a loss that should have been a win. But the resiliency and way the team came together and grew stronger reminded me why I fell in love with Wildcat basketball in the first place.

My first time competing in a Wildcat uniform was against Elmira University. As a freshman, I received some valuable minutes, which made me quickly realize that college basketball is a big step up from high school. It is a much faster pace, and the ball is constantly moving. Although it took a couple of games to get adjusted to the higher intensity of college basketball, it didn't take any to grow attached to the team and coaches.

Before our first official practice, we had open gyms and pickup games. So, I was already slightly familiar with playing with the girls. However, the first official practice was a whole different setting and was nothing like a laid-back game of pickup. As soon as I stepped foot in the locker room to get dressed, the energy was high, and I could immediately sense that it was going to be a good day. My senses were right, because after walking up to the gym, the coaches were bursting with energy and everyone was so happy to be in the gym.

We all have one thing in common; we all love the game of basketball. Practices showed that we all have a place for the game and this team in our hearts.

The most impactful moment of my Wildcat experience was our first win against Mount Aloysius. Before the game, I was devoting all my time to studying for a big anatomy and physiology exam that was approaching. However, when I stepped onto the court, my mind was clear. I had no worries about school, or life in general. My focus was on the game. During the game, we had a big crowd cheering us on the whole time.

The atmosphere was amazing. It was a great team win and the stats showed it with us having 18 assists. After the game, we had a light show in the locker room, thanks to Emily and Rachel. The team win against Mount Aloysius and the locker room celebration after is a core memory I will have for the rest of my life.

What I appreciate the most about Coach Mohney is that I can always come to her when I need advice, support, or just someone to listen to me. She always has my back and wants to see me succeed. Coach Mohney always knows how to help me on the court and in the real world, which I am forever thankful for.

I am inspired most about the idea of being able to help others. The medical field has always intrigued me mainly because I have had my fair share of hospital visits. I could always count on a nurse making me feel more comfortable and make the best out of the situation I was in. I aspire to be like all the nurses I have had, because I want to assist others and make them feel better. Nurses are a vital part of healthcare, and I would love to be one someday.

My favorite professor at Penn College is Dr. Kule. He teaches my Anatomy & Physiology I class. I feared this class the most in college, because I knew it would be extremely difficult and all my time would have to be devoted to studying. It was not long until Dr. Kule took all my fears away with this class. I love his teaching style and have been succeeding in his class. I look forward to learning anatomy and physiology, which not many people can say. Dr. Kule is preparing me for my nursing major. I am fortunate to have him as a professor.

Wildcat Athletics and the applied technology education I am pursing is ensuring me a successful future. The athletic program is providing me with friendships that will last a lifetime, and a team I will be able to tell stories about years from now, which excites me.

The education I am receiving from Penn College is setting me up for success. All the professors care about their students, and the class sizes allow me to get one-on-one time with each professor. As a student athlete, Coach Mohney and Coach Heap are always checking up on me and making sure I am putting my education first. Penn College is the perfect college that provides me with a bright future through my athletics and academics.

The Wildcat collegiate experience is a great pathway for any type of student. All the professors want each of their students to pass and have a bright career in whatever major they choose. The College provides each student with many resources, offers campus events, and points you in the right direction for success. Penn College feels like a home away from home. I would recommend this campus to anyone.

I would give all my thanks to Dan and Monica Klingerman for supporting Penn College. Due to their support, I have been given amazing opportunities as a student athlete, and my experience in college has been one of the best times of my life. The friendships and memories I have gained from joining the women’s basketball team are amazing and I would not change any of it for the world and it all started in the Klingerman Family Athletics Suite.