BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — After a standout season in Fall 2024 with Cal State Bakersfield's women’s soccer team, forward Karen Flores made the leap to professional soccer in January 2025, joining Mexico’s Atlas Femenil. Now, three months into her professional journey, Flores looks back on the lessons learned at CSUB and how they continue to shape her experience at the highest level of competition.

In a recent phone interview, Flores shared how her time at CSUB molded her resilience and determination. “At CSUB, I always had that underdog mentality,” she said. “When people didn’t think I could win, I knew I had something to prove. It’s the same mindset I carry with me now at Atlas Femenil. No one’s giving you anything, and you have to earn every opportunity.”

She also highlighted one of the most significant differences between college and professional soccer: the singular focus on herself, her health, and the sport. “Now, being a professional is my full-time job. I wake up every day thinking about soccer, how I can improve, and how I can stay at my best,” Flores explained. “It’s incredible to wake up and live my dream, to be able to dedicate everything to the game I love.”

Flores also offered valuable advice for current and aspiring athletes: “Take full advantage of the support you have. Whether it's coaches, teammates, or your family, use that support system to push yourself further. College soccer can be a stepping stone, but when the chance to go pro comes, you have to be ready to seize it.”

With a professional career ahead of her, Flores is eager to continue growing as a player and is proud of how far her journey has taken her, beginning as a determined player at CSUB and now representing one of Mexico's premier women’s soccer teams.