March is National Athletic Training Month (NATM), and we at MSU Denver wanted to spotlight our four amazing athletic trainers! We asked each of our trainers a series of questions varying from highlights of their job to their favorite places they were able to travel to. The next trainer we will be spotlighting is Head Athletic Trainer Chelsea Nugent.

Question: Why did you get into the profession?
 
A: I initially wanted to be a physical therapist when I was in high school. I saw athletic training as a way to gather some similar skills and training in undergrad before going to grad school. During my clinical rotation with football my senior year, I realized I wanted to stick just with athletic training. I had so much fun being on the field, getting to see lots of injuries, and being part of a large team. I liked the fast-paced nature of working in athletics and wanted to stay in that environment.
 
Question: What is your favorite part of the job?
 
A: If you know me, you know I love sports. Even when I'm not at work I am constantly watching some sporting event. Definitely a highlight of my job is getting to be a part of the excitement of gameday. I enjoy watching an athlete's hard work on the court/field and in the athletic training room come together to allow them to be successful against their opponent. 
 
Question:  What has been your favorite place the job has taken you?
 
A: One of my favorite trips was with NYU when we went to Atlanta. Our games were finished early on the last day, so we were able to spend an afternoon exploring downtown. I went to the World of Coke Museum as well as the College Football Hall of Fame. Both experiences I would highly recommend! I really appreciate when coaches lean into the local city and try to provide an experience that is unique to the area.
   
Question: What is your favorite part about working at MSU Denver?
 
A: I have been so impressed with the university leadership here at MSU Denver. I believe strongly in the vision Dr. Davidson has laid out for us. I like working for an institution that celebrates diversity and aspires to uplift students of all ages and backgrounds to be successful in their lives. Working for MSU Denver makes me feel like I have a positive impact on the community. 
 
Question: Obviously, travel is a part of the job... what is your go-to travel activity when traveling with the team?
 
A: I usually read on the bus; I think I was able to finish a total of 10 books during basketball season thanks to our three trips to Black Hills State.
 
Question: New York is obviously a very cool city... what was the best part about living in New York City while working at NYU?
 
A: I loved everything about New York City, so this is a tough question. I think overall the adventure of the city was the best part. There is so much to see and do that there is always something new to explore. Everything is at your fingertips, either a walk or subway ride away. However, what I miss most about the city, is the food; pizza, bagels, pasta, dumplings, sandwiches, sushi, ice cream, it's all just better in New York.
 
Question: What made you want to come back to Colorado after your time in New York?
 
A: I grew up in the Denver metro area. I enjoyed the adventure of living on the east coast, but I always knew I would move home. I wanted to be closer to my family and the mountains (skiing on the east coast is not it haha).
 
Thank you to our athletic trainers for all you do for our athletes!