In the dynamic world of college sports, the balance between athletic achievement and academic success often poses a challenge for student-athletes. However, the inspiring stories of Dakota Jones and Alyssa Charles, two determined individuals who found their path to triumph through the guidance of We Are G.A.M.E. (Having Athletes Mentoring and Education), shed light on the transformative impact of mentorship and dedication to both sports and education.
Dakota Jones, an outstanding basketball player hailing from West High School in Torrance, California, recently accomplished her master’s degree in public health at New York University with an exceptional GPA of 3.75. Similarly, Alyssa Charles, a dedicated softball player from Stockdale High School in Bakersfield, California, graduated from Menlo College in northern California with a degree in accounting and an impressive GPA of 3.96. Their successes not only reflect their athletic prowess but also emphasize their commitment to academic excellence.
We Are G.A.M.E. played a pivotal role in shaping the academic journey of these two extraordinary young women. Alyssa Charles acknowledges the crucial role played by Joyce and Allen Thigpen in assisting her with crucial decisions regarding her college choices, enabling her to make informed decisions based on various factors. Her involvement with We Are G.A.M.E. extended beyond academic guidance, as she was connected with mentors in the accounting field, facilitating her transition into a full-time position at KPMG International after completing two successful summer internships.
Alyssa Charles’ involvement with We Are G.A.M.E. also helped her cultivate leadership skills and engage in various extracurricular activities, such as serving as the manager of her softball team, participating in the weightlifting team, and holding significant positions in various honor societies and clubs. Her remarkable achievements exemplify the significance of a well-rounded educational experience.
Similarly, Dakota Jones, during her time at Lesley University, displayed an impressive balance between her academic commitments and her outstanding performance as a basketball player. Her exceptional achievements include being a three-year captain with two all-honors conference nominations, as well as setting a single-game rebound record at her university. Notably, her dedication to academia was reflected in her consistent placement on the dean’s list, along with her notable internship experience at Harvard University, which propelled her toward her current role as a research grant specialist at Georgetown University Medical Center.
These success stories underscore the profound impact of We Are G.A.M.E. in fostering not only athletic development but also academic excellence and career advancement. The program’s emphasis on guiding student-athletes from an early stage enables them to navigate their academic and athletic journeys with purpose and determination, ultimately leading them to fulfilling careers that align with their skills and passions.
The vision of We Are G.A.M.E. is rooted in empowering student-athletes by providing them with essential tools and mentorship to navigate the challenges of the collegiate sports world. The organization’s mentors work closely with students and their parents, crafting a strategic game plan that prioritizes both academic and athletic success, ensuring a well-rounded development for each individual.
