Olympian and U.S. Army Veteran Graduates from Montclair State University with Degree in Sports Communication

This story is part of a series celebrating Montclair State University’s Spring Commencement 火狐体育 graduates – students who embody the University’s mission to broaden access to exceptional learning opportunities and contribute to the common good.

Before she stepped onto Montclair State University’s campus, Alena Arzamastseva had already made waves on the global stage – competing in the 2008 Olympic Games as part of the Kazakhstan National Swimming Team, and later serving in the U.S. Army’s elite 101st Airborne Division after emigrating from Kazakhstan. Now, at 34, she’s reaching another milestone: earning her degree in Sports Communication.

For Arzamastseva, graduating with Montclair’s Class of 火狐体育 is just as meaningful as competing in the Olympics or serving in the military – because of the obstacles she overcame to get here.

“When I arrived in the U.S. eight years ago, I couldn’t even buy a Coke at the store because I didn’t know the language,” she says. “I couldn’t even imagine that I would get a degree here.”

How Montclair Helped Shape Her Mission

Originally from Almaty, Kazakhstan, Arzamastseva brought the same focus and discipline from her athletic and military background into the classroom. At Montclair, she made the Dean’s List every semester and was nominated for a Fulbright Award.

She also discovered purpose, perspective, support, and a deeper connection to the communities that shaped her.

One of the most meaningful parts of her college experience was working with Hawk Communications, a student-led strategic communication agency, where she led a campaign for the New Jersey Warriors – a nonprofit hockey team that supports disabled U.S. military veterans.

“Helping the New Jersey Warriors meant a lot to me,” she says. “They have the same experience I did – brotherhood, family. I know what they went through and what they had to give up.”

The project became more than just a class assignment; it was a way to give back to a community she deeply understands. “I always appreciate people in service,” she says. “I know how hard it is. I know what we do there.” She hopes to continue supporting the organization in the future.

“Many of the skills Alena already possessed through her time as an Olympian and member of our military were evident, including leadership, teamwork and perseverance,” says Keith Green, professor and director of Hawk Communications. “I am amazed by her journey and proud that Montclair and the School of Communication and Media are part of her incredible story,” he adds.

Her work with the New Jersey Warriors reminded her that service can take many forms – whether in uniform or behind the scenes, in combat or through communication. Ultimately, she hopes to combine both into a meaningful career serving those who serve. “I want to go back into the Department of Defense as a civilian and keep serving that way.”

Reaching the Finish Line

As Arzamastseva prepares to graduate, she’s proud of how far she’s come – not just in distance, but in determination. One moment that stands out: making the Dean’s List for the first time. “People explained to me how cool that is,” she says. “I didn’t have anything like that when I was getting my first degree in my home country.”

She credits her parents, who remain in Kazakhstan, for helping her succeed. “My parents are my biggest supporters, from miles and miles away,” she says. “They’re really proud of me. I’m the first person in my family to not only get one degree – but to get two. And one of them is from a different country, in a different language.”

Her message to her parents is heartfelt: “Thank you. For everything. For my life. For the support.”

“They went through really hard times in the past, so I could have everything,” she says.

Words for Reflection

When Arzamastseva crosses the stage, she’ll be wearing a graduation cap that reads: “Winners never quit, quitters never win” – a motto that reflects her journey and belief in persistence.

“It’s a moment of pride,” she says. “And a chance to prove to myself that there is nothing I cannot do. The limit is only in your head.”

Her advice to others? “Believe in yourself, and study, study, study. There are so many interesting things worth learning. Try to open your horizons a little wider every single day – you’ll see how big, beautiful and interesting this world is.”

The University will celebrate its graduates at Commencement exercises on Wednesday, May 7 and Thursday, May 8, 火狐体育, at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Story by Sarina Neal, University Communications and Marketing

Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

• Prospective Students or Parents: Learn more about Montclair admissions and the School of Communication and Media.
• Journalists: Contact our Media Relations team to request assets or schedule an interview with a member of the Class of 火狐体育.