CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - After helping lead John Jay to a sectional volleyball championship in 2025, Jaime Bartley-Cohen took her talents to Bates College in Maine. Entering the NCAA Division III program, Bartley-Cohen hoped to earn a spot in the starting lineup. A freshman season that included 100 kills made a strong case.
"My first start at Hamilton was a really big moment because I had proven to myself and my coaches that I deserved to start and play," said the sophomore. Her contributions helped Bates earn its first postseason appearance in quite some time.
Of course, volleyball wasn't the only reason she chose Bates.
"I really liked the academics. It's very intense," she said.
Majoring in politics, Bartley-Cohen enjoys the challenging coursework.
"The topics that we learned about were very relevant to me and my life," she said.
The same could be said for at least one of her professors, who previously worked for the CIA.
"Her work was really inspiring, and she has done a lot in her life," Bartley-Cohen said. "She's definitely one of those professors who I'm going to for advice for future experiences beyond college."
On the court, the experience has been just as rewarding.
"It's very different than being in high school," she said. "The team is very talented, and there's just a higher level of play."
As a result, her own game has continued to improve, but not simply through being surrounded by talented teammates.
"Our coaches were always trying to help us improve individually and as a team," said the outside hitter.
Like every athlete, Bartley-Cohen experienced challenging moments during the season. She credits the close-knit nature of the team with helping everyone persevere.
"Having people like that to rely on was the best way to get through," she said.
That bond extends well beyond the court.
"Our coaches are very lenient and want us to balance our work, volleyball life, and social life," said the Bobcat.
Bates has sports houses that host mixers for student-athletes, giving teammates plenty of opportunities to socialize.
"Our team is very social," Bartley-Cohen said.
The former Wolf has also embraced campus life on her own.
"I love the dining hall. The food is really good. Every time you go there, you see a bunch of people you know, and you can socialize," she said.
Of course, Bartley-Cohen is also focused on her future. She hopes to become more involved in her major, build stronger relationships with her professors, and immerse herself in classes that will prepare her for her career.
"I've always been interested in becoming a lawyer," she said.
With several years of college still ahead, she also has ambitious goals on the volleyball court.
"I want to be a more efficient player. I want to be a more dominant player and still compete with the competitive drive and energy I've always given," Bartley-Cohen said.
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