Iyana Abrams is proof that the mindset developed as a collegiate athlete can lead to success in both personal and professional life. Hailing from New Rochelle, New York, the former Women’s Basketball guard played for Baruch College. She is one of the few athletes in Baruch history that can claim winning multiple CUNYAC Championships in two different sports. She majored in corporate communications and was an active member on campus. Although she reached the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career points, Iyana’s journey didn’t stop on the court. Her tenacity and resilience, honed through sports, became the foundation for her impressive career. Below are a few highlights she shared with us:
Her Memorable Moment as an Athlete. One of Iyana’s most impactful memories from her athletic career was hitting her 1,000th point during her senior year in college. This achievement held significant meaning because, for much of her collegiate career, she didn’t believe it was possible. But during the playoffs, with each game and every step closer to the goal, she realized her potential. This experience wasn’t just about basketball—it was a testament to what happens when you believe in yourself and push past doubt.
How Athletics Shaped Her Approach to Life. “I believe being an athlete helped me handle setbacks and stay resilient”. The competitive spirit Iyana developed as an athlete carried over into her professional life. Just as she faced rejections in sports tryouts, she encountered similar challenges in job interviews. However, her background in athletics equipped her with resilience, allowing her to handle rejection and bounce back stronger. This mindset has been instrumental in her journey through the tech world, where persistence and grit are key to success.
Career Milestones. Iyana’s accomplishments extend far beyond the basketball court. After graduating and moving to California, she landed a role at Microsoft and later transitioned to Google, working in the ad sales space. Her career didn’t stop there. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Iyana had the opportunity to create a groundbreaking 17-week, 200-hour Tech Sales Career Accelerator. This program, designed for a Tech NGO, had to be completely virtual—a challenge that Iyana embraced and turned into a success. Her work in tech is a testament to her ability to innovate and adapt, traits she developed as an athlete.
The Importance of Financial Literacy for Athletes. “There are so many important financial topics, but if I could only pick one, it would be the psychology of money: why we spend, the deeper reasons behind consumer behavior and how to manage money responsibly.” Iyana believes that financial literacy is essential for athletes, especially in today’s world, where athletes can earn significant amounts of money in a short time. Her advice to current athletes? Dive into financial knowledge by reading three finance books within three months. It’s a simple yet powerful step towards securing their financial future.
She went on to say “these days, when athletes can earn substantial sums in a short period, it’s invaluable to understand how to secure your future by building a strong relationship with money.”
Words of Wisdom. Iyana leaves us with a favorite quote that encapsulates her journey and the potential she sees in every athlete:
“There’s so much more to who you are than you know right now. You are, indeed, something mysterious and someone magnificent… Although you might sometimes feel like a cog in a huge machine… the truth is that you are fully eligible for a meaningful life, a mystical life, a life of the greatest fulfillment and service.”
— Bill Plotkin, Soulcraft: Crossing into the Mysteries of Nature and Psyche
Iyana’s story is one of perseverance, continuous learning, and using the lessons of sport to navigate the challenges of life and career. She’s an inspiration for current athletes looking to transition into the next phase of their lives, proving that the skills learned on the court or field can be just as valuable in the boardroom.