Lily Hermosillo and Tyson Dunn represent a new pathway for student-athletes at UC San Diego, allowing them to continue their sports careers while pursuing postgraduate certificates in fields like Business Management and Project Management. Hermosillo, a senior and team captain, discovered this opportunity to gain additional education without sacrificing her eligibility, enhancing her future in sports marketing. Meanwhile, Dunn, who transferred from Canada, chose a flexible certificate program that aligned with his athletic commitments. Both athletes emphasize the leadership skills they gain from the program, which benefit their teams and futures.

By the Numbers
  • 12 student-athletes enrolled in five certificate programs this year.
  • Partnership includes eight sports teams at UC San Diego.
State of Play
  • The Extended Studies program is designed to fit into the busy schedules of Division I athletes.
  • Coaches see this partnership as a way to retain talented players who exhausted their undergraduate eligibility.
What's Next

As more student-athletes discover these flexible certificate opportunities, UC San Diego may attract additional recruits who are seeking a balance between academics and athletics. The success of Hermosillo and Dunn could inspire similar programs across other universities.

Bottom Line

The partnership between UC San Diego Athletics and Extended Studies provides a pragmatic solution for student-athletes, allowing them to continue competing while enhancing their education. This dual approach not only prepares them for their careers post-sports but also strengthens team dynamics through shared leadership and experience.