Focused on a future in exercise science

At 20 years old, Carley Johnson is beginning a new chapter at South Texas College after moving back to the Rio Grande Valley from Minnesota.

Johnson is majoring in Kinesiology exercise science and is currently enrolled as a full-time student.  Johnson spent more than two years attending college out of state, where she originally pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. While she found the field interesting, she began to reflect on her long-term goals and career interests. That ultimately led her to change her academic path.  

“I realized I wanted to become a chiropractor,” Johnson said. “It felt like a big change, but it made sense for what I see myself doing in the future.”  

She said the transfer process to STC was manageable, though gathering transcripts from her previous institution caused some delays. Despite registering later than expected, Johnson said she felt supported throughout the transition.

Now in her third year of college, Johnson is still finalizing her graduation timeline as her transferred credits are evaluated. She said it was her mother, who graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice, influenced her initial academic interests and to even pursue college, but since then she’s discovered her strong connection to exercise science and she knows she’s now on the right path. 

Outside the classroom, Johnson works as a gymnastics coach, a job she has held for several years. She coaches young children and describes the experience as both rewarding and influential in shaping her career goals. Even while in Minnesota, Johnson worked at a gym, making coaching a consistent part of her life.  

Johnson is also interested in becoming more involved on campus. Encouraged by close friends who are active with STC Student Activities and Wellness, she plans to get involved as she continues adjusting to STC.  

When facing challenges, Johnson reminds herself to stay focused and keep moving forward.  

“Have faith and keep going,” she said. 

For more information on STC’s Kinesiology program, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/kinesiology/.