A dominant force in NCAA Division II volleyball, Sterns established herself as one of the greatest players in University of Minnesota Duluth history. In 2013, she was named the AVCA and Daktronics NCAA Division II National Player of the Year, capping a remarkable career that included three AVCA First Team All-America honors, three AVCA All-Region selections, four All-NSIC honors, and two NSIC Player of the Year awards.
A four-year starting outside hitter, Sterns rewrote the Bulldog record books, graduating as UMD's all-time leader in kills (2,078) and attacks (4,058). Her versatility set her apart, becoming the only Bulldog in program history to record 2,000 kills, 1,000 digs, 100 solo blocks, and 100 service aces during her career.
Her impact extended well beyond individual accomplishments. Sterns helped lead the Bulldogs to four consecutive NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, NSIC regular-season championships in 2011 and 2012, and the 2013 NSIC Tournament Championship, playing a pivotal role in one of the most successful eras in program history.
Following her collegiate career, Sterns signed with Terville Florange Olympic Club in France's top professional league, becoming the first Bulldog volleyball player to play professionally overseas. She later returned to her alma mater as an assistant coach from 2015–to present helping mentor the next generation of Bulldog volleyball student-athletes while continuing to shape the championship tradition she helped establish.
