BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – With less than a month remaining before her graduation from California State University, Bakersfield, Roadrunner student-athlete Mackenzie Okonta has made a huge step toward her goal of becoming a professional in epidemiology. Earlier this week, Okonta received an acceptance letter into Columbia University's master's program in the subject, setting her path for future as a difference maker in public health.

A member of the CSUB track & field program for the past two seasons, Okonta has credited her time as a `Runner with providing her the opportunity to excel both academically and athletically at the Division I level.

"My coaches created an environment where I could focus on learning and competing without feeling pulled in too many directions. The helpful professors and rigorous coursework gave me an opportunity to learn more critically and gain confidence in my knowledge to prepare for graduate school."

A transfer from UNLV, Okonta has been representing the CSUB Blue and Gold for the last two years. Her primary events are in the horizontal jumps where her lifetime bests are 5.40m (17 '8.75") in the long jump and 11.76m (38' 7") in the triple jump.

Upon her move to Bakersfield, Okonta found a program that has helped shape and prepare her for the future. "It made me more disciplined and better at managing my time," she said. "I learned how to handle pressure and stay focused when there was no extrinsic motivation."

Okonta's acceptance into Columbia represents the hard work and dedication that she was able to have off the track and in the classroom. "Personally, it means a lot because it shows that I'm capable of learning new concepts at a high level," Okonta said. "Professionally, it's a step forward and an opportunity to keep growing in public health."

Her interest in the public health field and epidemiology grew through her academic experiences and better knowledge of health disparities. 

"I became interested in epidemiology after learning more about health disparities and how research can be used to prevent problems, not just respond to them. Columbia stood out to me because of its reputation and the opportunities it offers in public health." 

CSUB Director of Track & Field/Cross Country Marcia Mansur-Wentworth praised Okonta's effort and dedication.

"I am very proud of Mackenzie," Mansur-Wentworth said. "She is a very bright person and has true depth as a person. Her accomplishments are representative of our core value of academic excellence." She added, "Mackenzie has a great world view and lots of experiences that make her one of the most well-rounded people I know."

Okonta plans to use her education to make an impact in the field of public health with a focus on supporting student-athletes. 

"My career goal is to create a health and wellness center that helps rehabilitate athletes and support their overall health," she said. "I want to work with schools and athletic programs so athletes have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and recover properly, closing the gap between high school and NCAA athletics."

The senior `Runner gives insightful advice to future student-athletes who will be balancing academics and athletics. "Take your academics seriously and don't wait until things get overwhelming to ask for help," Okonta said. "Learn how to manage your time early and communicate with your coaches and professors…enjoy the process, because it goes by fast."

~GoRunners.com~