I, Sam Wangner, have one more year as a student at Longwood University with a major in Athletic Training.  Since my athletic days and receiving various injuries, I became interested in how the human body responds and adapts to various stressors.  I enjoy and am forever curious about the biomechanics and fluidity of movements before, during, and after injury.  I plan on graduating in May 2018, with hopes of receiving a job with the military, collegiate, or travel team setting.  I will continue education online and complete both a sports psychology and kinesiology degrees.

On campus, I am the LATA club treasurer and volunteer within the Athletic Training program.  After being a Girl Scout my whole life, I am an Ambassador and remain active with former troop members.  Also in my hometown, I am affiliated with the local American Legion and volunteer with hosted activities.  I used to be a swim coach on a summer swim league but due to time constraints, I now just offer private lessons.  During semester breaks, I also work in a physical therapy clinic to meet people and broaden my knowledge.

The English 400 theme is perfectly timed to coincide with both my current student status and future self in the workforce.  My existing identity on campus is unnoticed unless you have met me through athletics or in a previous class.  However I am now transitioning into senior status which includes reaching out to potential internship opportunities, online programs, and job offers.  By completing and providing this blog publicly, it will be a tool to branch out my own scholarly identity while helping others create their own network.

With all the social media platforms and ability to access information, it is important to isolate and put the best version of yourself forward.  Since setting foot on Longwood’s campus as a freshman, it’s been consistently said that “Sam, you need to watch what you post on social media.”  Even to this day when I hear something along those lines I think “Oh no, what was posted?”  See, there are those who panic and automatically think the worst.  With this blog, I will be providing insight on how to network that is individualized and professional.