Exercise Science Master’s Student Pursues his Passion

By Published On: July 23, 2019

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2002, Walter Prater began a professional journey through a variety of positions.  These jobs ranged from corporate finance to software development to STEM education. Despite these stable and interesting opportunities, Walter knew this path wasn’t his calling. His true passion was always health and sports.

Acknowledging the need to pursue his passion brought him back to school in search of a master’s degree in Concordia-Chicago’s Applied Exercise Science Program. Switching career paths entirely is a bold decision, but Walter was up for the challenge. He had a vision for what his future could be, and Concordia-Chicago was ready and excited to help him reach his professional and personal goals.

Knowing that he eventually wanted to combine his business background with his interest in helping athletes excel, he chose to earn a master’s degree in Sports Nutrition. Concordia-Chicago’s Sports Nutrition concentration is designed for those who aspire to provide sound sports nutrition information to athletes and physically active individuals, which was perfect for Walter.  The program focuses on using evidence-based principles in designing and implementing exercise and nutrition programs and interpreting research in the field of exercise and sport nutrition. This knowledge, plus his business experience, could help Walter achieve his ultimate goal: to start an online business developing training and nutrition plans for high-level athletes.

Walter worked hard and earned his master’s degree. He is now a Certified Sports Nutritionist and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. A year after graduating, Walter was inducted into the National Society of Leadership & Success. After receiving a certificate for this most recent level of distinguishment, Walter posted a photo on social media with a message to all: ” No matter what challenges lie ahead, never let ANYONE tell you what you can and can’t do.”

When asked what advice he would give prospective students, Walter offers three main points of wisdom:

  1. Acknowledge your true passion so that you may align it with your education and career goals.
  2. Understand how to be a great student and maximize your studying skills.  For Walter, “anything that’s repeated is retained.”
  3. Start with the end in mind.  When you do this, you’ll be able to chart and follow the best educational path to achieve your goals.

Walter is one of many students who pursue their passion for health and fitness with Concordia-Chicago. If you’re looking to turn your dreams into action, our bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees can meet you where you’re at and guide you where you want to be.

Interested in our Sports Nutrition concentration? Learn more here.

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