Sophia Michaels
Simone Biles, known as the most decorated gymnast in living history, faced mental health struggles in her career. She had to retire from the Tokyo Olympics in 2020 due to the “twisties,” affecting her spatial awareness. This led to a two-year break from gymnastics.
Initially aiming for a college gymnastics career at UCLA, Biles opted to turn professional instead, putting her collegiate dreams on hold. She then pursued an online degree at the University of the People, demonstrating her commitment to education amid her athletic pursuits.
Simone Biles’ Initial Plan for UCLA
Originally set on attending UCLA, Biles deferred her enrollment due to the 2016 Summer Olympics. Despite the difficulty in prioritizing her gymnastics career over college, Biles believes it taught her valuable lessons in self-trust and dedication.
Following setbacks in the 2020 Olympics, Biles made a strong comeback, showcasing resilience that earned her accolades like the Best Comeback Athlete ESPY Award.
Choosing an Online Business Degree
Biles, known for her unconventional approach, opted for an online education at the University of the People. She pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, aligning her academic pursuits with her future career goals.
Her choice to embrace non-traditional learning environments and promote equal access to education positions Biles as a role model beyond her gymnastics achievements.
