CU-Lock Haven athletic training student completes full-immersion experience in Georgia
LOCK HAVEN, Pa. (07/27/2026) — Kierston Long, of Sunbury, is a 2026 graduate in the Master of Science in Athletic Training program at Commonwealth University-Lock Haven and completed her full-immersion clinical experience at Lowndes County High School (LCHS) and the Hughston Clinic in Valdosta, Georgia.
Long intentionally chose to complete this rotation in Georgia to push herself beyond familiar environments. "I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and challenge myself in a completely new place," she said.
Long's placement provided an intensive, real-world setting where she applied the knowledge and skills developed throughout her athletic training education. During her immersion, Long was actively involved in the daily operations of a high-performing athletic training room that serves a large and diverse student-athlete population.
Working under the supervision of head athletic trainer Philip Pieplow, and assistant athletic trainers Margaret Ligon and Ashley Evans at Lowndes County High School, she gained extensive experience in injury evaluation, rehabilitation planning, emergency care and interprofessional communication.
At the Hughston Clinic, she trained under Dr. Matthew Heaton, who also served as the team physician for LCHS, further expanding her exposure to orthopedic assessment and clinical decision-making. The setting offered opportunities to work with both winter and spring sports, allowing her to manage a wide range of orthopedic and medical conditions. Her preceptors played a key role in guiding her development, offering feedback and opportunities to take increasing responsibility in patient care.
One highlight of Long's experience was the opportunity to work with athletes from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. These interactions strengthened her ability to adapt communication strategies and provide individualized, athlete-centered care. A particularly
meaningful experience included collaborating with an international student-athlete, which broadened her understanding of cultural differences in sport and healthcare.
Long also participated in high-intensity situations that required quick decision-making and calm, effective communication. These experiences reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork and professionalism in the athletic training profession.
Long's full-immersion experience further solidified her commitment to serving athletes and communities through high-quality, evidence-based care. She has returned to her hometown region to give back to the community that first inspired her interest in athletic training and is now employed by Geisinger Sports Medicine.
Media Attachments
From left are Margaret Ligon, Philip Pieplow, Kierston Long and Ashley Evans.
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Julie Stellfox, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications, jms833@commonwealthu.edu, 570-484-2280Share this Story
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