Ever wondered what it’s like to walk in the shoes of a college athlete? A group of local kids just got the full behind-the-scenes experience, and honestly, it sounds amazing.
People’s Credit Union teamed up with URI women’s athletics and the South County YMCA for “Be a Ram for a Day”—an event that gave young people way more than just a campus tour. Think locker room access, Q&A sessions with actual student-athletes, and a genuine look at what it takes to compete at the college level.
The mastermind behind the event? Mie Carstensen, a URI women’s varsity soccer player who also serves as People’s student-athlete liaison. She wanted to create something meaningful, and she delivered.
“As a student-athlete myself, being able to give back to the community through opportunities like this means a lot to me,” Carstensen explained. “Working with People’s Credit Union has shown me how powerful athletics can be in creating real connections and inspiring young kids.”
More Than Just a Field Trip
When the kids arrived at URI’s Kingston campus, they weren’t just passive observers. They got the full treatment: tours of the track and field facility, soccer and lacrosse fields, and the basketball center. But the real magic happened in those spaces most people never see—the equipment rooms, the strength and conditioning facilities, and candid conversations with coaches and athletes.
The goal wasn’t just to show off fancy facilities. It was about opening doors and expanding possibilities.
“Be a Ram for a Day allowed us to partner once again with URI women’s athletics to help shine a light on the need to empower our young people to reach their full potential,” said Courtney Hunter, Head of Community Development at People’s Credit Union. “By connecting kids with these strong and successful women and their coaches, we were able to show them what’s possible through confidence, teamwork, and leadership.”
Inspiration in Action
Carstensen’s vision went beyond just showing kids around campus. She wanted them to see themselves in these athletes—to understand that with hard work and support, they could be standing in those same shoes someday.
“From meeting different teams and coaches to seeing the facilities and hearing from athletes directly, I wanted them to feel included and excited about what their own future could look like,” she said. “Being able to help create that experience and hopefully inspire them in some way is something really special to me.”
And that’s the real win here. Not just a fun day out, but a glimpse of what’s possible when community organizations, educational institutions, and dedicated athletes work together to lift up the next generation.