Dear Washington: Michaela Nelson
7/2/2020
Dear Washington,
Thank you for giving me an experience better than anything I could’ve imagined. Thank you for being a place where I could learn, grow and challenge myself. Thank you for providing me with a support system that made it all possible. Thank you for helping me figure out who I am and who I want to be.
When I was first being recruited, I knew nothing about Washington other than the fact that it was a big school and really far from home, which was not what I was looking for. But after some convincing, I decided to visit and by the end of the trip, I was struggling to come up with reasons not to go there. It wasn’t because it seemed like the “perfect program”, but because it seemed like everyone in the program wanted to invest in me as an athlete, student and person. Six years later, I can honestly say that is exactly what I got.
During my four years here, I have had the incredible opportunity to be a part of a team that went to NCAA Nationals for the first time in 19 years and a team that did it AGAIN the following year. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of a stellar class that has always contributed to the majority of our team’s lineups and set multiple program records. Individually, I’ve been able to compete three different events, set new career highs each year and compete at NCAA Nationals. Outside of the gym, I’ve been able to receive an incredible education at a world-renowned university and work at one of the best research institutions in the country. I’ve also had the pleasure of serving as both the founding president of the Black Student-Athlete Alliance and the president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
All of this was only made possible by the countless people at Washington that choose to invest in me and my goals. Despite a number of injuries throughout my career, I had coaches that always believed in me and got me where I needed to be. I had doctors, trainers, and nutritionists that always made sure I was supported, happy and healthy. I had advisors that equipped me to achieve big goals and encourage me along the way. I had teammates that were always there for me and the reason I could show up to practice everyday. And of course, I had my family who always provided me with endless, unconditional love and support.
My experience as a student-athlete helped me learn how to aim high, fail forward and figure out what’s actually important to me. Gymnastics helped teach me the value of high standards, hard work and commitment. The people around me helped me understand the importance of growth, leadership and purpose. My experience as a University of Washington student-athlete may be over, but the lessons, relationships and memories I’ve gained will stay with me well beyond graduation.
Although the last few opportunities of my career were cut short, I am overwhelmed with gratitude thinking about all of the people who have loved and supported me throughout my time here and made the challenging task of being a student-athlete an absolute joy. This university and everything it’s provided me truly means the world and I will always bleed purple and gold.
Go Dawgs!
Michaela Nelson
