NE North Dakota News

Clarissa "Reese" Ramirez has made significant strides in her career since transitioning from Gateway Community College to Minot State University (MSU) for softball. Her journey led her to St. Louis University's athletic department, where she serves as an assistant athletic trainer for the NCAA Division I Billikens.

Ramirez's decision to attend MSU was influenced by a teammate and her desire to pursue athletic training while continuing her softball career. She described this move as a "huge gamble," noting, "I had a good feeling after talking to coach Triplett."

Her interest in athletic training stemmed from her experiences with physical therapy and athletic trainers during her time as an athlete. "I felt athletic training would give me the opportunity to give back to student athletes," she explained.

Reflecting on her student-athlete experience, Ramirez said it significantly shaped her career path, providing exposure to various fields within sports. She remarked, "I really don’t know what direction my career path would’ve gone if I hadn’t played sports."

Ramirez cherishes memories from MSU, especially games against Bemidji State and the University of Mary. She highlighted the supportive community at MSU, stating, "The sense of home away from home was unmatched."

After graduating from MSU, Ramirez pursued a master's degree at SIU-Edwardsville and gained experience working with club sports during the pandemic. She then moved to Saint Louis, Missouri, for a full-time position at Webster University before joining Saint Louis University in 2024.

In her current role at Saint Louis University, Ramirez provides medical care for several teams and emphasizes adaptability in her workday. She noted that being a former student-athlete helps her relate better to current student-athletes.

Outside of work, Ramirez enjoys spending time with her dogs and engaging in hobbies like baking and gardening. As a first-generation college student, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities college provided: "I encourage younger student-athletes to find a university and community that feels like home away from home."

Minot State University is known for its dedication to education excellence and community engagement through rigorous academic experiences.