Natalie Yilanjian
Empowered to Lead: Natalie Yilanjian’s Journey Through Athletics and Academics at Marywood
For Natalie Yilanjian, Marywood University stood out as the ideal place to grow both academically and personally. “Geographically, it was close to home but far enough that I could branch out and grow as a person, forming new connections,” she explains. Beyond its proximity to her family, Natalie was drawn to the university’s breadth of academic opportunities. “Academically, they had so many majors and pathways available to choose from,” she notes, adding that Marywood’s small campus size and accessible resources—like tutoring, counseling, career services, and labs—were key factors in her decision.
Another major factor in her choice was the chance to play lacrosse at a competitive level while being part of a close-knit team. “Athletically, I had the opportunity to play lacrosse on a small, close-knit team and strong athletic community,” Natalie says. This blend of academics and athletics has allowed her to thrive during her time at Marywood.
Reflecting on her time at Marywood, Natalie is most proud of the personal growth and friendships she has gained. “I have met my forever best friends, who happen to be my teammates,” she shares. “I have grown into a person I never could have imagined.” Additionally, Natalie has been an active member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) for three years, where she’s had the chance to “use my voice to better the Marywood community.” She’s proud to have played a role in creating positive change and strengthening the bond within the campus community.
Through her academic and athletic pursuits, Natalie has learned a profound lesson: “Not everyone’s path is smooth or identical, but with consistency, a good work ethic, and kindness, you can go far.” This lesson has fueled her persistence in the face of challenges, whether academic, athletic, or personal.
Marywood has also empowered Natalie in numerous ways, both inside and outside the classroom. “I have been empowered through all the things I have learned in the classroom, which will eventually translate to saving lives and helping others,” she says, expressing her deep passion for pursuing a career in healthcare. “I have also been empowered through athletics, where I have learned how to be a better leader, sharpen my teamwork skills, and practice kindness and empathy.”
Outside of her involvement with SAAC and lacrosse, Natalie is dedicated to pursuing her long-term career goals. Looking five years ahead, she envisions herself working as a Physician Assistant. “In five years, I hope to be enrolled in or graduate from PA school, working as a Physician Assistant,” she shares. “My dreams for the future are to be an Orthopedic surgery PA and a mentor for undergraduate students with dreams of getting into PA school.” Marywood’s support, especially through the Pre-PA club, has helped her take significant steps toward these aspirations by exposing her to the many facets of the PA profession. “By having the option to be a biology major, instead of the accelerated PA program, I have had more time to devote to academics, while still using all of my NCAA eligibility,” she explains.
When it comes to giving back to the university, Natalie expresses deep gratitude for the impact Marywood and its donors have had on her experience. “I would tell them that their donations are helping make Marywood a better place than it already is,” she says. “Their donations will improve the experience of all the future Pacers to come. They have impacted my education in many ways, such as opening my eyes to resources I did not even know existed before coming to Marywood.”
Natalie is committed to paying it forward when the time comes. “Absolutely, because if I have had such a great experience, I want to give back so that many other generations of Marywood students can say the same, if not better,” she says.
As Natalie looks ahead to her graduation day, she anticipates a flood of emotions. “I will feel an immense amount of pride, as well as other emotions,” she reflects. “It will be bittersweet because I have made some of the best memories and met my forever people at Marywood, while also learning how to overcome adversity.” Walking across the stage at Commencement will be a moment of triumph for Natalie. “It will be an ‘I made it’ moment, which is just a bridge into the future ahead of me.”