Noël Riley
Recent M.S. in Athletic Training Graduate Finds Dream Job
Noël Riley is a recent graduate of the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program. She achieved both her bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years through the Athletic Training Direct Entry Master’s Program, fulfilling the requirements for an M.S. in Athletic Training and preparing for the Board of Certification (BOC) Exam. Noël explains that “Merrimack’s program was unique because not many schools have the 3+2 option. Since it is now required to have a master’s to become an athletic trainer, this opportunity was unbelievable.” A standout feature of the program for Noël was its emphasis on clinical rotations. These hands-on experiences, alongside classroom learning, were instrumental in her development. Noël completed four clinical rotations during her graduate years, including stints at Pingree School, Harvard University (working with the baseball team), Salem State University, and the Brooks School. Under the supervision of certified athletic trainers and healthcare professionals, she honed in on her skills across various settings.
“The M.S. in Athletic Training set me up to be successful as an Athletic Trainer. Merrimack prepared us really well. When I graduated, I felt fully equipped to enter the real world.”
Graduates of Merrimack’s athletic training master’s degree have an excellent job-placement record. After graduating, Noël passed her Board of Certification (BOC) exam and got a full-time role as an Athletic Trainer for the Beaver Country Day School. For prospective students considering a health sciences graduate program, Noël has some advice:
“I really loved the hands-on experience and what I was learning. If you love what you are doing, you will do the work because you want to.”To hear more about Noël’s story, listen to the Grad Chat podcast episode where her story continues!
