SEASIDE, Calif. - Kayla Young's journey as a student-athlete at Cal State Monterey Bay is a testament to the pursuit of excellence both on and off the track. 

As a member of the cross country and track team, Young has experienced countless memorable moments, but what truly stands out to her is the personal growth she has achieved during her time at CSUMB.

Not only has she become a better runner, but she has also developed into a better person, thanks to the support and encouragement from her coach and teammates.

"Kayla is the quintessential student-athlete that coaches always seek, and rarely get," her head coach Greg Rhines explained. "She is more than talented in her sports and she has very strong academics. And one of the best things about Kayla, she is an absolutely wonderful person. She is kind, witty, and has some unyielding grit, and that's just the sampling of Kayla Young. She makes everything and everyone she's around just that much better."

A tight-knit community
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One of the main reasons why Young chose CSUMB was the camaraderie and atmosphere within the team. From her first visit to the campus, she felt an immediate sense of belonging.

The team members were not only welcoming but also brought immense joy to the community. They have become some of her closest friends, and Young attributes much of her success to their support and positive influence.

As she reflects on her time at CSUMB, Young is grateful for the friendships she has formed and the impact they have had on her life.

Routine & confidence
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In addition to the team camaraderie, Young emphasizes the importance of routine and confidence in her success as a student-athlete. Establishing a consistent routine has been crucial in balancing academics, training, and competition. 

It allows her to stay focused and motivated, ensuring that she can perform at her best both in the classroom and on the track. Confidence, on the other hand, plays a significant role in achieving personal records and pushing boundaries.

Young understands that believing in herself and her abilities is key to surpassing her own expectations and reaching new milestones.

With the CCAA championships approaching, Young and her team have set ambitious goals for themselves. They are determined to break the cross country team record and show everyone what they are capable of within their division. 

Young is particularly motivated to push herself to the limits and achieve a new personal record in her last collegiate cross country season. She is grateful for the opportunities she has had as a member of the team and is excited to leave it all on the line.

Leadership & career
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Looking towards the future, Young has not yet settled on a specific career path but has a few ideas in mind. 

She plans to continue working with young children and aspires to attend a master's program focused on speech and language pathology or school psychology. These fields are areas she is passionate about and would love to contribute to. 

Young is eager to see where her journey will lead her and is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Kayla Young exemplifies the spirit of a dedicated student-athlete who strives for excellence both on and off the track. Her growth as a runner and as a person, along with the support of her coach and teammates, have shaped her into the individual she is today. 

Young and the Otters head to Hooker Oak Park in Chico to compete at the CCAA Championships.