We're featuring Megan Walker Thigpen in our inaugural Alumni Spotlight! She finished her career as a multiple All-American and All-SEC performer. In addition. Walker Thigpen was a key component to Auburn's historical season in 2015 as a senior. She was an integral part of the program's run to the NCAA Super Six and helped the squad break MANY records, including the team's top score in program history: 197.750.
MEGAN WALKER THIGPEN
Years competed: 2011-15
Current job: "I have several jobs! I am a club gymnastics coach at Bay City Gymnastics Academy (Daphne, AL), choreographer, and my husband and I are Superhosts on Airbnb with three property listings."
Advice to current Auburn gymnasts: "Enjoy every moment with the sport you love. Give it your all, commit to it in every way you can, and find the joy in each training day. We all know that meet days breathe life back into the monotony of training and if you're anything like me, you'll miss that adventure the moment it's over. Cherish each opportunity you have to wear orange and blue!
Additionally, take the time to care for yourself in all the ways you know how. Always remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being! And finally, take the time to revel in the most wonderful things about being on campus: beautiful walks, picnics on Samford Lawn, and time with your friends. Those memories are everything!"
Advice to future Auburn gymnasts: "Your four years at Auburn will fly by and before you know it, you'll be an Alumnus like me. Prepare yourself for a wonderful and exciting ride but remember that gymnastics is just one part of the experience. When your career is complete, you have your whole adulthood ahead of you! As a freshman, take the time to explore all of your academic options, utilize your resources on campus, and figure out what academic field motivates you and puts passion in your heart."
What does Auburn Family mean to you?: "As a freshman, I remember being so excited to wear my gear in the airport just to see if someone would say "War Eagle" to me as we passed each other. The Auburn Family has never let me down and when my husband (Andrew) and I travel, our battle cry is shared throughout the world. We've met Auburn fans in Italy, Costa Rica, Mexico, Morocco, Iceland, Spain, England, Ireland, and France.
The truth is there's an invisible, uniting force that runs through the soul of Auburn University. The Auburn Family has always felt like coming home. As a student, there are people everywhere you turn willing to lend a helping hand and support you. The energy and care you receive from the Auburn Family is genuine. You can feel it the moment you step on campus or see someone in the grocery store donning an Auburn hat. The spirit of Auburn is infectious. Aubie will always make you smile, and the soaring Eagle will always fill you with pride!"