Annie Gerdes '19

How did your Knox experience prepare you for your career?

Without Knox, I never would have found my passion for coaching. Without former Head Coach Chris Haught-Thompson, I would have never had a mentor to lead me to this career. It allowed me to follow my passion for soccer, and grow as a player and then, as a coach. 

As a student-athlete, you also learn things that are not necessarily taught in the classroom. Being a part of the Knox soccer team taught me how to manage my time better, how to be fully dedicated to two aspects of my college career, and how to love my team even when it didn’t get along. Especially at Knox, being a student-athlete gave me insight into the type of person I wanted to be.

How would you describe academic life at Knox?  

I was able to take a variety of classes in order to find the path I wanted to pursue. Classes were small, and the bond I formed with professors was very unique. I also enjoyed being able to explore different clubs and classes while still being able to graduate with my major in four years.

Tell us about a memorable professor and what you learned from them. 

Heather Hoffmann, professor of psychology, mentored me for many years. She knew me when I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and helped guide me while I figured it out. I always felt comfortable talking to her about my future, and she always pushed me to pursue my dreams. 

What are your long-term plans?

I plan to earn my master's in sports psychology and management, and a few years down the line, get a head coach position. Eventually, I plan to be a sports psychologist or sports counselor in the NCAA because I believe student-athletes need a source that understands their stress and mentality.

At Knox, Annie was on the women’s soccer team, and was a member of Best Buddies. She was also founder of the Knox College foreverU chapter, an organization that empowers youth to overcome and battle adversity.