Ep. 38: Same Athlete, New Environment

This episode is all about what really changes when you step into a new environment. Ashley Thurk, USC Women’s Soccer Defender and Maya McDermott, USC Women’s Soccer Forward join host, Maliya Patel to discuss all about the student-athlete journey from playing at a young age to performing at the collegiate level. They even got the opportunity to play against the pros: Angel City FC and San Diego Wave FC, elevating their confidence and perspective.We dive into the transfer experience and how a fresh start can completely reshape confidence, mindset, and performance…not just as athletes, but as people. From balancing academics and athletics to navigating misconceptions around NIL and the transfer portal, this conversation goes deeper than what we see at games.We talk about the power of a strong support system, the difference an empowering environment makes, and why learning to focus on what you can control: your attitude, preparation, and effort, changes everything.And through it all, one message stays consistent: trust the process, stay present, and be grateful, because the people and moments come and go.That said, we had some fun with this episode, so sit back, relax and laugh out loud!