Turning Potential Into Reality

A chance conversation in a barbershop with an Anna Maria basketball coach has taken Trafficia Warburton places she never imagined for herself. She was already enrolled at another college, but Coach Kevin Bigelow saw her potential and was successful in recruiting her to come play for Anna As a student in the social work program at Anna Maria as well as captain and stand-out player for the women’s basketball team, she has been completely transformed by her experiences.

Trafficia fell in love with the social work program and prepared to work in a clinical setting where she can help others and empower them to improve their situations. She appreciates how every class at Anna Maria is intentionally designed to provide skills and experiences that give students an advantage in launching their careers. Trafficia also credits Anna Maria with increasing her work ethic and developing a discipline in balancing schoolwork with caring for her nine-year-old son.

“I want to be a good role model for my son. If I have a challenging semester, I just remind myself that I have a goal and I need to keep working toward it.”

In her classes, Trafficia learned how to work with different types of people from different backgrounds. She hopes to apply those same skills to coaching basketball, where she can guide players to success not just on the court, but in academics and life as well. Being part of the supportive community at Anna Maria made a huge difference in Trafficia’s life, and she wants to be able to provide that same kind of nurturing environment for others.

“If you try, and if you show effort, the people at Anna Maria will help you no matter what. If you want to learn, they will work hard to help you reach your goals.”