My name is Parker Navitsky, and I was born and raised in Rochester, Minnesota. I played football and graduated from John Marshall High School in 2021. Currently, I am a Senior at the University of Dubuque, pursuing a degree in environmental science to fulfill my dream of becoming a nature conservationist. Additionally, I play as a Defensive End for the University of Dubuque’s football team. Coming to the university was a significant risk for me. I transferred from Morningside University, leaving behind my group of friends and my football family to start at a different school. Throughout my life, I have grappled with mental health challenges, including persistent anxiety and difficulties concentrating in school. To this day, these issues continue to affect me daily. However, the struggle intensified when I left high school and moved to a different state and town, far away from the people who love me. After spending two years at my previous institution, I grew and formed strong friendships there. Nevertheless, I knew it was time to move on and transfer. In the span of just 24 hours, my life changed dramatically as I moved across state lines and found myself on my own. During this time, my mental health hit an all-time low. I was leaving behind friends who would always be dear to me and facing the daunting task of making new connections. For two weeks, I was trapped in my own thoughts, doubting whether I was good enough to compete at the next level and contemplating hanging up my cleats, forsaking the sport that had been my guiding light throughout life. Then, I received a blessing from UD to continue my education and play football, and I accepted it without hesitation. Coming to UD and encountering the emphasis on brain health on campus opened my eyes to the fact that there are countless others who face similar challenges. While it can get incredibly lonely at times, knowing that the coaches and staff at the college genuinely care about your well-being has had an immeasurable impact on my transition. This journey was a life-changing experience, one I would never take back. It has shaped me into a better person and a better man. I deeply appreciate everyone who has crossed my path and those who will continue to be a part of my life here at UD.
