Manuel’s passion for basketball began when she was five. “My mom encouraged me to play at a young age and I’ve developed my skills and love for the sport over time,” she said. Manuel attended Montana State Billings University for her freshman year, but quickly decided that she needed a change. However, she wanted to continue to play basketball. Manuel uploaded a video of her game highlights on Twitter. She was soon contacted by Azusa Pacific University recruiters via Instagram where she was put in contact with the school’s basketball coaches.
Manuel felt that California would be a good place for her, and she appreciated the smaller size of the school. “I transferred during Covid so I didn’t get to visit before starting,” she said. “I just took a chance, but it was a pivotal decision in my development as a person.” Manuel attributes her positive adjustment to a new state to her experience with basketball. “The hardest part of leaving home was not knowing how to navigate life without my family, but since I grew up being a student athlete my whole life, I had a smooth college transition because it was familiar.”
An important part of Manuel’s college journey has been the time she’s spent on a close knit team. “Being a full time student athlete is challenging, but also very exciting. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” she said.
“Being on the basketball team helped me find my community. My teammates are my best friends. I’m very close with them and I’m grateful for that.”
Manuel has also gotten the opportunity to grow her relationships through traveling to different states and countries with her team. Manuel’s favorite memory from her time at APU was in her sophomore year when her team beat Hawaii Pacific University in regionals. “We ended up going to nationals and made the Elite Eight which was an awesome experience.”
Her coach, T.J. Herdeman, has also played a significant role in Manuel's time at APU. “Coach Hardeman’s mission is to develop us as people and athletes. I’ve learned a lot about myself from his mentorship,” she said. “I’ve learned how to be more confident in my decision making skills, how to get through hard times by leaning on others, and how important time management is.”
After graduation, Manuel plans to move to Arizona in August to start her career. “Although I’ve loved playing basketball at APU, I don’t plan on playing in the future unless it’s in a local recreational league or just for fun,” she said. “And I’m not sure exactly what I’m being called to do yet, but I do know I want to work in a job where I can help people.” As a marketing major, Manuel is considering a career in social media marketing. She currently serves as an intern in the admissions department. Through her internship, she has expanded her knowledge and passion for social media.
Manuel shared advice for prospective student athletes. “For anyone on the fence about being a student athlete, balancing school and sports,” she said, “give it a shot. I’m so glad I did.”