Kelly Last's typical day consists of class, lab, homework, practice or a game, and trying to fit in some time to eat and sleep. This is what her schedule looks like for at least two-thirds of the year.
Taylor Nisbet knows exactly how Last feels; her day looks the same. Last, a third-year, and Nisbet, a second-year, both play volleyball and lacrosse for Simmons College and as dual-student athletes, they struggle to fit everything in.
"When I was in high school I would go from cheerleading practice to volleyball practice all in the same afternoon," said Last. "And during football games I would do the half time show with the cheerleaders, run over to the sideline, grab my clarinet, and then go back onto the field with the band. I'd perform in my cheerleading uniform."
"Kelly has always enjoyed playing sports. In high school she played volleyball, tennis, and was a cheerleader. I think she enjoys the competition and special friendships that come with being part of a team," said Last's father, Michael.
Nisbet has been playing sports year round for most of her life as well.
"I decided to play two sports in college because I wanted to stay active. I have always played sports to keep in shape and for the love of the game. I am a very competitive person," said Nisbet.
Last did not intend to play two sports in college, it just turned out that way.
"When I was accepted to Simmons College, I knew I would try out for the volleyball team. However, I didn't decide to play lacrosse until January of freshman year when a COF cheerleading team didn't work out," said Last.
"The reason I decided to play two sports in college is because I love being a part of a team. It is a huge commitment to make, but it is worth it. You get to do something you love everyday with your teammates who are like a family to you."
Nisbet who is currently in volleyball season now will experience playing two sports for the first time this year. When volleyball is over, she and Last will get some time off and then start training for lacrosse.
"I wouldn't know how to manage my time without playing sports, I played sports all through high school," said Nisbet. "Playing more sports helps me keep a schedule."
Both women's friends see the result of their hard work and dedication to the large commitment they have taken on.
"As a result of playing sports, Taylor is responsible and knows how to work with a team. Which are great life skills. I think at times she can get stressed out from the demands of playing sports, but if she wasn't playing she would probably be unhappy." said second-year Molly Flynn, Nisbet's roommate.
"Kelly puts her heart into whatever she does. It does not surprise me that she has been successful in both volleyball and lacrosse because she is truly a hard worker and an asset to both teams," said Jana'e Johnson, assistant athletic director. "Selfishly, I am glad that she plays two sports, because I have two opportunities to watch her compete and bring liveliness to her teams."
"Taylor is one of our most versatile athletes at Simmons. It is always exciting to see her play because she is a true competitor and always seems to have a positive attitude. She has definitely made her presence felt as an athlete," said Johnson.
Both women have received honors for their commitment to their teams. Nisbet was named First Team for Lacrosse by the Standard Times and she received the Old Colony League Sportsmanship Award for volleyball. Last was the first cheerleader from her high school to be named All-State for Connecticut.
There are currently 11 athletes at Simmons who play dual sports, including volleyball, crew, swimming, cross-country, tennis, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and basketball.
"I am extremely proud of both of these players, as well as all of the dual sport athletes at Simmons, because it is hard to play two sports and balance academics. It means that you are dedicating a lot of your time and energy for your teammates and for the betterment of the athletic program," said Johnson.
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