Still in the Game: From Essex to Argentina, with Connections That Travel

For many student-athletes, university is more than just an academic journey. It’s a chance to push limits, grow personally and professionally, and set the foundations for a successful future. Shanie Marion, a former MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology student and sports scholar, embodies this notion perfectly. Now a self-employed Mental Performance Consultant and full-time football player based in Argentina, her story highlights the impact of Essex’s Performance Sports Programme in shaping ambitious athletes into professional people.

Introducing... the next stage of Shanie Marion 

Why Essex?

Choosing the right university is about finding the perfect combination of academic distinction, elite sport opportunities, and a supportive environment. For Shanie, Essex ticked all the boxes:

“The program was exactly what I was looking for. The teachers seemed passionate, and the classes were interesting. The coach of the women’s football team also convinced me that Essex was the right place for me."

Smashing Goals On and Off the Pitch

Managing competitive sport with academic commitments is no small feat, but Shanie mastered it through organisation and discipline:

“Every time I had some free time, I used it to advance in my readings or assignments. Planning ahead is key—even if an assignment is due in two months, start early, collect data, do readings, and get informed.”

The ability to balance priorities is something Essex nurtures in its sports scholars, providing them with time management skills that carry over into professional life.

A Team for Life

Beyond the classroom and training grounds, Shanie found the chance to form strong connections with teammates and develop as a person:

“I’ll always remember the times training in the rain or the freezing cold, still laughing with the team. The friendships and support network I built at Essex were invaluable.”

We are proud of our sporting community for building strong, lifelong friendships and creating a network that lasts beyond university.

From Student to Pro: Making It Happen

Now running her own business in mental performance while playing football full-time, Shanie credits her time at Essex for equipping her with the knowledge and skills to apply it in real-world scenarios:

“I had the opportunity to be a sports scientist frontrunner at Essex, an experience that taught me data analysis and how to explain concepts to different audiences. My MSc also helped me understand the key principles of my field and how to connect with clients. My experience as a student-athlete taught me to be organised, crucial even now when juggling multiple responsibilities.”

Pro Tips for Future Student-Athletes

For those looking to pursue both academia and elite sport, Shanie’s advice is simple and effective:

“Always stay one or two steps ahead. Use your free time wisely, plan assignments in advance, and be prepared for the unexpected. When you’re organised, you stay in control.”

What’s Next?

Shanie’s journey is far from over. Currently working towards her Mental Performance Consultant Certification (CMPC), she continues to build experience and expertise in her field, to support more athletes in optimizing their mental game.

If you’re an aspiring student-athlete looking for a place to push yourself academically, and in your sport, Essex could be your perfect match.

Discover how our Performance Sport programme at Essex can support your overall development.

Follow our student athletes’ journey on Instagram @uniessexperform

Sports scholarships and bursaries

We are committed to supporting and developing high performance athletes. Find out whether you could be eligible for a sports scholarship or bursary, plus a range of additional benefits too when you join the University of Essex.