Scoreboard
05/04/24
Final - 5 innings
12 Adrian
4 vs. Kalamazoo
Senior Day
05/04/24
Final
4 Kalamazoo
2 at Alma
05/04/24
Final
0 Adrian
3 vs. Kalamazoo
05/04/24
Final
11 Kalamazoo
10 at Alma

Catching Up with Monisha Berkowski '08

Monisha Berkowski playing soccer.
Photo by Mark Bialek

Personal 
Graduated in 2008, majoring in psychology with a minor in anthropology/sociology.

Current Residence
Asheville, North Carolina

After K / Current Occupation
After graduation, I briefly moved back to Oaxaca Mexico, where I had studied abroad, to volunteer for an organic farming advocacy group. After moving back to the states, I earned my Ph.D. in clinical psychology from University Detroit Mercy. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, particularly those who are involved in the criminal justice system.

Favorite Soccer Memories
Most definitely it is the camaraderie of my teammates, both on and off the field. From the thrills of hard-earned victories and heart-breaking losses, to getting dinner rolls thrown at us at a quirky restaurant outside of Memphis, or hosting the Israeli women's national soccer team – these are memories that will stick with me for the rest of my life!

Competing at K
We're all familiar with the positive benefits sports can have on development (e.g., teamwork, leadership, goal-setting, etc.). However, I think the structure and culture of Kalamazoo College allowed my athletic endeavors to co-exist with other identities and opportunities throughout my college experience. I was able to prioritize my academics, get involved in other extracurricular activities, and develop community with athletes and non-athletes alike. Learning to balance these commitments and interests was an extremely important skill throughout grad school and currently in my career.

Other Campus Involvements
I was involved in creating the Habitat for Humanity chapter on campus and served as a TA in the psychology department.

Other Meaningful Experiences
I made the tough decision to skip my junior soccer season and study abroad for six-months. It was an absolutely life-changing experience. There is just so much value from being able to broaden your worldview, to be so far out of your comfort zone. It's one of the many ways that K provided a unique and well-balanced college experience.

Athletic Accomplishments
All-MIAA First Team (2004, 2007)...All-MIAA Second Team (2005)...Two-time MIAA Defensive Player of the Week...school record-holder with 151 saves in a season (2005)...18 shutouts in 56 career games played...329 career saves ranks second in school history.