Allison Harris, a Portland State graduate, overcame challenges to pursue both pre-med studies and Division I softball. Inspired by her mother's battle with breast cancer, Harris aspired to improve patient care through medicine. Despite facing pressure to choose between her academic and athletic ambitions, she thrived in both areas, embodying leadership on and off the field, leading with a philosophy of love. As a Cohesion Executive on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, she fostered community among athletes, creating impactful programming throughout her four years at PSU. Harris is now set to further her career goals in medical school, aiming to specialize in radiation oncology.

By the Numbers
  • Harris maintained a .300 batting average in softball, representing resilience through frequent failure.
  • She was involved in four years of leadership development while balancing rigorous coursework and athletic commitments.
State of Play
  • Harris is returning for a fifth year at Portland State to continue her pre-med studies.
  • She has built significant connections within the women's sports community and among her peers, strengthening collegiate athletics.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Harris intends to apply to medical school, with a focus on becoming a doctor who prioritizes whole-family care, emulating the caring approach she admired in her mother鈥檚 healthcare providers.

Bottom Line

Allison Harris's journey exemplifies resilience and dedication, showing that it is possible to pursue multiple passions simultaneously; her story serves as an inspiration for future student-athletes facing similar challenges.