A Jersey Blues Testimonial - Volleyball & Softball Alumni Ally Latourette

Lincroft, NJ - Brookdale women's volleyball and softball standout from the class of 2015, Ally Latourette, conveys her feelings on being a student-athlete and how it set her up for success and preparation for her US Coast Guard position as a 2nd class machinery technician.

Latourette was a two-sport participant for the Jersey Blues. She was a libero for women's volleyball, earning 3rd Team All-Region and 2nd Team All-GSAC two years in a row. In 2014, Ally had a dual position on the softball field as a right fielder and a shortstop. 

"Brookdale was my first experience and taste of being independent. Being a student athlete, I made so many wonderful friends and met people that I know I'll have in my circle for the rest of my life. I knew from a young age I wanted to be in Coast Guard, but wasn't quite ready yet when I graduated high school. I wanted to keep playing sports and see what else was out there for me before I made that massive leap.

Brookdale was and is the perfect stepping stone if you're unsure of what you want to do with your life, but you still want to keep moving forward. With my degree, I was able to progress and it allowed more opportunities within the service because of my education, it set me up for successes in ways I didn't know were possible. I am currently a Machinery Technician, 2nd class, in the US Coast Guard and because of my experience at Brookdale I was able to live my life at my own pace and ease into the transitions of life skillfully. I wouldn't change a thing to this day and I am so thankful for all of the opportunities I was given at Brookdale!"