University of Minnesota Athletics
Beyond the Pitch with Kirsti Lilja
3/9/2016 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
What are you dream career aspirations/what you'll be working towards post-graduation?
I recently just received an internship with the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation in St. Paul which focuses on outpatient treatment for addiction. This is an amazing opportunity, especially since I am working towards becoming an addictions counselor in the future. I hope to use my Family Social Science major and Youth Studies minor as a way to incorporate being an addictions counselor that focuses on and works with adolescents and young adults and find ways to help them with their addiction and prevent it from becoming an even more prominent issue in their adult lives.
How has being a University of Minnesota soccer player prepped you for that next step in life?
Becoming a part of the U of M soccer team and a student-athlete has shown me how hard work really does pay off. Just because you aren’t where you are at right now, doesn’t mean you won’t achieve it down the line. You just have to work hard and be determined about where and who you want to be in the future. Whether it’s a few weeks, months, or years from where you are now, with the passion you have for your goal and the individual you are striving to be, you can accomplish your dream.
What are some of your favorite memories during your time at the U of M?
Definitely being a walk-on for the U of M women’s soccer team was probably the highlight thus far of my college career. That alone brought me so many amazing memories and relationships that I will never forget. Creating life-long friendships with people I’ve met my freshman year and developing new ones along the way - living in my first house and learning what it’s like to be an actual adult with responsibilities.
What is your advice to future U of M soccer players?
NEVER GIVE UP. I never thought I would play soccer again, but I was given an incredible opportunity and even when there are situations that seem impossible to overcome, you can. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you are unbelievably lucky to be a part of something that is greater than yourself. Never forget why you are there and bring the love of the game and passion with you to every practice and to every game. It goes by so much faster than you think and even though there are going to be some very hard, demanding and challenging times, it’s the friendships you make, those big games you win and that goal you make, that will ALWAYS outweigh those hard times. Strive to be your best, push others and enjoy every minute of it!
