Bryor Mosley, ‘21 MEd

When I first arrived at Arizona State University on January 1, 2020, I was transitioning from a fast-paced life in New York City. I had carefully chosen ASU for its balance of strong academics, welcoming culture, athletic spirit, and great weather. Excited to begin my master’s in higher education at the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, I looked forward to connecting with fellow students and immersing myself in campus life.

None of us could have predicted the sudden shift that COVID-19 would bring. After just one semester, everything moved online: classes, work, and nearly all aspects of daily interaction. It felt surreal and isolating—a feeling I know many people experienced, regardless of where they were.

In search of human connection and a sense of normalcy, I used my ASU staff discount to sign up for personal training sessions at the Sun Devil Fitness Center. It became my only consistent way to be on campus, interact with students, and stay active. Over the next four years, I worked with seven different student trainers—each one graduating just as we’d formed a strong working relationship. With every new trainer, I not only learned about fitness but also gained insights into their perspectives, aspirations, and what it truly means to be part of the Sun Devil community.

For nearly two years, these brief training sessions were some of my only in-person interactions. They reminded me that even in the midst of upheaval, we can still find meaningful connections. Now that I’ve moved back to Tampa, I continue to draw on the lessons I learned: stay open to unexpected opportunities, nurture the communities you’re part of, and never underestimate how much a single point of human contact can inspire you. I left ASU with more than just a master’s degree—I walked away with a renewed appreciation for shared experiences and a supportive network of Sun Devils I’ll always value.