Meet Samantha Hoopes: From Penn State Kinesiology Student to Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model

Samantha Hoopes, a Penn State alumna, has carved out an impressive path for herself in the world of modeling, capturing attention with her debut in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Born in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Hoopes is a graduate of Central Bucks East High School and, like many before her, started college with a specific career in mind. However, her journey would take a dramatic turn, leading her from the halls of Penn State to the glamorous stages of international modeling.

Hoopes, who initially enrolled in Penn State to pursue a degree in kinesiology, had dreams of becoming a gym teacher and perhaps coaching a field hockey team on the side. Growing up on the East Coast, she developed a love for field hockey and was even an athlete during her middle school years. However, her budding interest in modeling began to clash with her love of sports, as she was advised to avoid field hockey to prevent bruises that could hinder her modeling prospects. Faced with this decision, Hoopes shifted her focus toward her future in the fashion world.

Eventually, Hoopes made the decision to change her major from kinesiology to business. The shift was significant, not just academically but also symbolically, as it represented her growing commitment to the modeling industry. While business was a practical choice, Hoopes’ heart was increasingly set on pursuing her passion in front of the camera. It was this desire that eventually led her to Hollywood, where she embraced the independence of adulthood and started following her own path.

In 2014, Samantha Hoopes gained widespread recognition when she made her debut in Sports Illustrated’s 50th anniversary Swimsuit Issue, a milestone for any model. At just 23 years old, Hoopes joined the ranks of other young models vying for the coveted “Rookie of the Year” title. Being featured in Sports Illustrated was a major break for the Penn State alumna, as the magazine is known for launching the careers of supermodels such as Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum, and Kate Upton.

While the competition to become “Rookie of the Year” was fierce, Hoopes made a significant impression, showcasing not just her beauty but also her down-to-earth personality. In interviews, she openly discussed the challenges of transitioning from life in Pennsylvania to the fast-paced world of Hollywood. Having spent much of her life living under her parents’ roof, Hoopes described her move to Los Angeles as a liberating experience, giving her the freedom to pursue her dreams on her own terms.

“I’ve always lived in my house under my parents’ roof. Then when I moved to Hollywood last year, I felt so liberated and like a different person,” she told Sports Illustrated. “I could wake up and choose what I wanted to do. For once in my life I’m following my heart instead of doing what people tell me to do.”

This sense of independence has been a recurring theme in Hoopes’ life. Despite being told that modeling wouldn’t last forever, she was determined to make the most of the opportunity in front of her. With a combination of grit, ambition, and self-awareness, she acknowledged that while modeling might not be a long-term career, the present was her time to shine, and she didn’t want to look back with regret.

Her breakthrough into the Sports Illustrated world quickly opened more doors. Hoopes became known for her stunning photoshoots, which highlighted her natural beauty and athletic physique. Although her background in sports had been cut short in high school, her training and fitness knowledge, initially developed during her time studying kinesiology, became an asset in the modeling industry. Maintaining a healthy, fit physique became a key component of her career, and she used her platform to emphasize the importance of a balanced and active lifestyle.

As her career took off, Hoopes gained more visibility not just in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue but also in other major campaigns and magazines. Brands took notice of her marketability, and she soon found herself working with high-profile companies, including Guess and Carl’s Jr. In fact, Hoopes became widely known for her appearance in Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s “All-American” ad campaign, which gained considerable attention during the Super Bowl season. This ad, featuring Hoopes alongside other models, showcased her ability to bridge the gap between high fashion and mainstream advertising.

Despite the growing demands of her career, Samantha Hoopes has remained grounded, often speaking about the importance of her roots. Penn State, in particular, holds a special place in her heart. Reflecting on her time as a student, she has spoken fondly about her experiences in college and the unique journey that led her from Penn State’s classrooms to the runways and photoshoots of the modeling world.

In addition to her modeling career, Hoopes has embraced the responsibility that comes with fame, using her platform to advocate for causes she believes in. She’s been outspoken about body positivity and has worked to break down stereotypes in the fashion industry, advocating for a more inclusive and realistic portrayal of women’s bodies. As a model, she’s well aware of the pressure to conform to certain beauty standards, but she has consistently used her influence to promote confidence and self-acceptance.

As Samantha Hoopes continues to build her career, it’s clear that she has more to offer than just a pretty face. Whether she’s posing for a Sports Illustrated shoot, walking the runway, or engaging with her fans on social media, Hoopes exemplifies the qualities of resilience, independence, and determination. Her journey from Penn State kinesiology student to internationally recognized model is a testament to her hard work and her ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive industry.

Looking ahead, Samantha Hoopes is poised to continue making her mark in the modeling world while staying true to her values. She’s a prime example of how following one’s passion, even when it means diverging from the original plan, can lead to unexpected and fulfilling success. And while she may no longer be the aspiring field hockey coach she once envisioned, there’s no doubt that Hoopes has become a role model in her own right — inspiring others to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.