After completing his undergraduate studies and competing at a Division I university, Dylan Jergens opted to further his basketball career at CUAA while simultaneously pursuing his master’s degree.
As the final buzzer sounds and the crowd erupts in cheers, Dylan Jergens takes a moment to reflect on his journey from Division I basketball to his current chapter at Concordia University Ann Arbor. A graduate student pursuing a Master’s of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with K-12 Health and Physical Education Certification with aspirations of becoming a Physical Education teacher and basketball coach, Jergens has seamlessly blended his passion for the game with his academic pursuits.
Transitioning to CUAA
“After my time at CMU, I wanted to play one last year of basketball,” Jergens explains. “Concordia had the education program I was looking for, and the opportunity to play alongside my brother made it an easy choice.”
Having played at Central Michigan University (CMU), a Division I school, Jergens brought a wealth of experience and skill to CUAA’s basketball team. Despite the transition from a larger institution to a smaller one, Jergens found the shift relatively smooth, attributing it to the welcoming atmosphere of his new teammates and coaches.
“The expectations from the basketball standpoint could be challenging,” Jergens admits. “But my teammates believed in me from day one, which made the transition easier.”
Playing primarily as a point guard but also filling in as a shooting guard when needed, Jergens relishes the opportunity to contribute to his team’s success on the court. His leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed, as he was voted team captain by his peers—a testament to the respect and trust he has earned within the team.
“I wanted to be a humble guy and serve my teammates in any way I can,” Jergens reflects. “Being voted team captain was a humbling experience and reinforced the importance of leading by example.”
Balancing Athletics and Academics
Beyond the basketball court, Jergens is focused on his academic pursuits. With CUAA’s flexible online program, he can balance his studies with his athletic commitments, all while benefiting from the supportive environment fostered by the university’s faculty and staff.
“The professors here genuinely care about your success,” Jergens emphasizes. “They go above and beyond to help you both academically and professionally.”
Advice for Future Graduate Athletes
Reflecting on his journey thus far, Jergens offers advice to fellow athletes considering graduate programs.
“It’s important to have a vision for what you want to do,” he advises. “Know your goals and find a program that aligns with your aspirations, both academically and athletically.”
Why Choose CUAA for Graduate Studies
As Jergens looks ahead to the next chapter of his life, he remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that both CMU and CUAA have provided him.
“Concordia is a school that truly cares,” he concludes. “Whether it’s on the court or in the classroom, the support and encouragement from the CUAA community have made this journey unforgettable.”
Jergens’ journey serves as a reminder that success isn’t just measured by wins and losses on the court but also by the relationships formed, the lessons learned, and the growth achieved along the way.
Want in?
The Teacher Certification Program at Concordia is tailored for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field who aspire to transition into education. Our innovative program offers a collaborative approach, enabling you to obtain both a master’s degree and Teacher Certification conveniently through eight-week, self-paced online courses.
—This story is written by Keara Chaperon, Social Media Manager for Concordia University Ann Arbor and Concordia University Wisconsin. She may be reached at keara.chaperon@cuaa.edu.