Katie Cramer
Katie Cramer
Class Year
’24, M.A. ’25
Current home
Johnson City, Tenneessee
Major(s)
Allied Health Science, Athletic Training
Current Position
Athletic Training Orthopedic Resident at Ballad Health Highlands Sports Medicine
A Carthage graduate with a bachelor’s degree in allied health science and a master’s degree in athletic training, Katie Cramer ’24, M.A. ’25 is now an athletic training orthopedic resident at Ballad Health Highlands Sports Medicine. In her role, Ms. Cramer is gaining hands-on experience as an athletic trainer in a clinical setting, while also providing outreach athletic training services to a local rural high school. She supports the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Football Athletic Training staff during practices and games, contributing to athlete care both on the field and in the clinic. Additionally, she works alongside ETSU team physicians, assisting with a variety of clinical procedures. As a testament to her dedication and preparation, she passed the Athletic Training Board of Certification Exam on her first attempt in May 2025.
Ms. Cramer stays involved with Carthage by attending sports events, especially for the team. She appreciates the bonds she created at Carthage, which helped guide her to the place she is today, both professionally and personally. “I am deeply grateful for my time at Carthage,” Ms. Cramer says. “I am motivated to give back to the community that has given me so much.”
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I enjoy positively impacting the health and well-being of the student-athletes at the local high school where I serve as an athletic trainer. Being part of the football team’s undefeated season has been an exciting and rewarding experience. In the clinical setting, I enjoy learning how to do new procedures. I work closely with four physicians and take full advantage of every learning opportunity.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“The time-management skills I developed at Carthage have prepared me for my career. While completing the rigorous requirements of the allied health science major, along with pre-athletic training and pre-physician assistant coursework, I also balanced the demands of being a player on the team. This experience taught me early on how to effectively manage my time between academics, athletics, and personal life.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“I chose Carthage for its 3+2 Master of Athletic Training pathway. I was excited to be part of the first cohort. Additionally, Carthage allowed me to continue playing soccer.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“All my professors in the Athletic Training Program played a vital role in preparing me for success. Each contributed uniquely to shaping me into a confident healthcare professional. Being in small classes was especially valuable, allowing me to build meaningful and personal connections with my instructors.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“The central message I took from Carthage’s mission is the importance of ‘togetherness.’ During my time at Carthage, my athletic training cohort and I navigated the rigorous program by supporting one another at every step. I continue to embrace this philosophy in my career, recognizing that providing the best care in healthcare requires collaboration and teamwork among many professionals.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“Some of my fondest memories at Carthage come from my time on the women’s soccer team. I built lasting friendships and unforgettable experiences that will stay with me forever.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Seize every opportunity optimistically; you never know where it might lead you.”