When Miranda McDonnell arrived at Cal State East Bay, she never imagined how deeply the experience would shape her life. From her first practice as a Pioneer to hoisting the conference championship trophy in 2019, every moment—on and off the pool deck—became part of the foundation for the person she is today.
 
"East Bay broadened my horizons," McDonnell reflected. "It exposed me to different perspectives and people from all kinds of backgrounds. Every experience, good and bad, left a lasting impression—from a tough freshman year to winning our first conference title. Looking back, I wouldn't change a thing. It all made me who I am."
 
For McDonnell, the memories that stand out most aren't just about competition—they're about connection. "The moments I remember most didn't happen in the pool," she said with a smile. "They were dancing on the pool deck, cracking jokes, and hanging out in hotel rooms with my teammates. Those are the memories that still make me laugh today."
 
She credits much of her growth to head coach Shane Pelton, who joined East Bay during her time as a student-athlete. "When Shane first started, I wasn't his biggest fan," McDonnell admitted. "But honestly, I don't know if I would have completed all four years with any other coach. He made swimming a little less serious and helped me transition from a swimmer to a swammer."
 
After graduating, McDonnell charted a new course—one that still draws from the teamwork and discipline she learned as a Pioneer. She now works as an Audiologist at Central Coast Head and Neck Surgeons in Salinas, California, helping patients with hearing and balance disorders as part of a 23-person care team.
 
"Some days, I feel like I'm back on the swim team," she laughed. "There are lots of opinions and plenty of people who think they're in charge—including me! But being part of a collegiate team taught me how to manage emotions, communicate, and work toward a shared goal. Even though the goals have changed, the lessons haven't."
 
When it comes to inspiration, McDonnell doesn't hesitate. "My parents, Dan and Tracey McDonnell, are the most influential people in my life," she said. "The way they put God, each other, and our family first taught me everything I need to know. There's a Chris Young song, 'Voices,' that says, 'Turns out I'm pretty dang lucky for all that good advice'—and that's exactly how I feel."
 
As for her message to current Pioneer swimmers? McDonnell's advice is simple: enjoy every moment.
 
"Don't let the little things take away from your experience," she said. "Train hard, give your best in the pool, and when you're out of the pool—be present. Get involved in other opportunities at East Bay, meet new people, and find who you are outside of swimming. It'll make the transition from swimmer to swammer so much easier."
 
Now thriving in her career, McDonnell carries the Pioneer spirit with her every day—committed, compassionate, and grounded in the lessons that started at Cal State East Bay.