ORONO, Maine -- Victoria Tinghitella of Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina and former field hockey student-athlete, is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development.

She graduates from UMaine with a Master of Education degree and hopes to coach and work with athletes in the future.

Why did you choose UMaine for graduate school?

I chose UMaine because it allowed me to continue both my academic and athletic careers. I knew I wanted to pursue my master's in Kinesiology and Physical Education, but it was also really important to me to play my final season of field hockey. UMaine allowed me to do both at a high level.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time at UMaine better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at UMaine?

I've been really fortunate to have people at UMaine who have made a lasting impact on my experience. Dr. Jennifer McNulty has been more than just a mentor to me. She's someone who has consistently supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow both academically and professionally. She's also created an environment where I feel supported every day, truly making Lengyel Hall feel like a second home. 
 
My former field hockey coach Michelle Simpson has also been a huge influence on my journey. She's someone I truly look up to, not just for her knowledge of the game, but for the way she leads and cares about her athletes. She's shaped the kind of coach and person I hope to be in the future. 
 
Also, a special thank you to Diane Legrande, the administrative specialist for the Kinesiology, Physical Education and Athletic Training programs, who is such a constant source of support for all of us graduate assistants, and to Jesse Kaye-Schiess. Seeing them every morning would instantly make my day brighter. I'm also grateful to Dr. Robert Lehnhard, from whom I've learned so much, and all the KPEAT staff who helped make Lengyel Hall a special place. 

What has UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?

UMaine has allowed me to compete in the field hockey team and to explore my passion for coaching and teaching in a real-world setting. Beyond that, it's also where I've built really meaningful friendships and relationships that have made this experience even more special and unforgettable.  

What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically? 

Show up with intention and be where your feet are. Celebrate the small wins, enjoy the little things, stay curious, and let each day carry you a little further than the last. 

What's on the horizon? What are your plans after you graduate?

After graduating, I hope to continue working in athletics, ideally coaching field hockey. Long-term, I want to keep developing as a coach and educator and make a positive impact on the athletes I work with.

Special thank you message:

I want to say thank you to my teammates, who have supported me through the highs and lows. And last but not least, a heartfelt thank you to my family. I wouldn't be where I am today without their constant support and encouragement, even from miles away.