It’s interesting to reflect on the experiences that have indirectly prepared me for graduate school. I think academia often does a good job of highlighting accomplishments that are directly tied to academics, research, grades, internships, and so on. But in doing so, it can sometimes overlook the value of life experiences that also shape who we are as students and scholars. It’s just as important to recognize the growth that happens outside the classroom, whether it’s through leadership roles, community involvement, personal challenges, or the habits we build to stay grounded. These moments may not always show up on a résumé, but they’ve played a huge role in shaping my resilience, purpose, and drive throughout my academic journey.
I started playing sports at a very young age. With a dad who was a soccer coach and a daycare that encouraged us to participate in various sports, it quickly became a norm in my life. I continued playing until a year after I started community college, with a two-year gap in between. Sports truly shaped me, they taught me how to be a team player, strengthened my communication skills, and helped me develop leadership qualities.
It wasn’t until I joined Peer Resource and Leadership in high school that I truly stepped out of my comfort zone. I had always been shy growing up, unless I was playing sports, where I felt most free. But being part of those programs challenged me in new ways. It was the first time I found myself speaking up, leading discussions, and connecting with people through shared goals. That experience helped me find my voice and gave me the confidence to speak in front of others.
Since then, I’ve made it a personal mission to keep growing in that area. Public speaking isn’t something that came naturally to me, but it’s a skill I’ve continued to nurture. More recently, I’ve started practicing a morning ritual that includes breathwork, and it’s made a noticeable difference. I feel more grounded, clear-headed, and calm when I present, which allows me to be more present and intentional in how I communicate.
Something else I picked up while earning my MPH was the practice of speaking positive affirmations to myself. I especially like to do this before presentations, job interviews, or any situation where I want to show up as my most confident self. Repeating affirmations helps ground me, it’s like giving myself a pep talk from within. It reminds me of who I am, what I bring to the table, and that I’m capable of handling whatever comes my way. This simple ritual not only boosts my confidence, but also brings me a sense of peace, knowing that I’ve already planted the belief in myself before stepping into the moment.