Learning To Make an Impact
In honor of National Native American Heritage Month in November, NATA Now is highlighting some of NATA’s Native and Indigenous American members and their impact on the athletic training profession.
In her search for a fulfilling career, University of Houston athletic training student Elisa Linton was inspired by her professors at Fresno State University to explore athletic training, which blended her interest in athletics and medicine.
“During my undergraduate studies at Fresno State University, one of my professors guided me toward sports medicine,” she said. “I had originally planned to become a nurse, but I felt something was missing. She told me athletic training was the best of both worlds – the medical field and athletics – and that it could be a perfect fit.”
Linton agreed after working with the Fresno State football team and observing how her preceptors impacted the lives of the athletes they treated.
“Once I started working with Fresno State football, I loved every second of it,” Linton said. “I enjoyed being challenged, staying active and being part of a team again.”
Keep reading to learn more about her AT aspirations and career development.
What does a typical day as an AT student look like?
A typical day for me starts early with classes from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. After class, I head to clinicals. I’m currently working with a Division I men’s basketball team. By the time I arrive, practice is usually underway, so I jump right in to assist. After practice, we move into recovery – dinner or a late lunch with post-practice treatments. I usually leave around 7 p.m., head home, study for a bit, then get ready to do it all again the next day.
What setting are you most interested in pursuing and why?
I’m most interested in working with Division I football. I love the fast pace and the fact that football is never boring. I grew up in a football household, so I’ve always enjoyed the energy of practices and game days. Football constantly challenges me – physically and mentally – and I thrive in that environment.
Who has been your biggest influence in athletic training so far?
My biggest influence in athletic training has been my preceptor, Erica Caine, LAT, ATC, CES. She has been a mentor, a teacher and an example of what it means to truly care for athletes. Watching how she balances professionalism with compassion has shaped how I want to practice as a future athletic trainer.
Why is representation in athletic training important and how does it impact the profession?
Representation in athletic training is important because athletes come from diverse backgrounds and having a staff that reflects that diversity builds trust and connection. When athletes see someone who understands or relates to their experiences, they feel more comfortable seeking care and communicating openly. Representation also strengthens the profession by bringing new perspectives, cultural awareness and inclusive care to every athletic training environment.
What do you look forward to the most as a future athletic trainer?
I look forward to making an impact in athletes’ lives – not just by helping them return to play, but by supporting them through every stage of recovery. I’m excited to continue learning, growing and contributing to a profession that combines my love for sports, medicine and helping others.
What impact do you hope to have on the profession?
I hope to make a positive impact by being a dependable and compassionate athletic trainer who athletes can trust. I want to promote the importance of athlete mental health, individualized care and evidence-based practice. My goal is to inspire future students to pursue athletic training with the same passion and commitment I have, and to continue building respect and recognition for our profession.
