Getting Involved and Finding a Balance by Leire Rípodas
Hi! I am Leire Ripodas Laquidain, I was born and raised in Pamplona, Spain. Currently, I am a rising junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering, with a minor in Robotics.
Moving to a completely new place from another country was everything but easy; however, keeping myself busy with things that fill me with joy and happiness was the key to settling in. During my time at Georgia Tech, I have been part of many different clubs and organizations which have given me friendships and memories that I will keep forever.
Personally, being involved on campus has been crucial for my mental stability, time management, and personal growth. Extracurriculars are going to make the difference in your college life; you will never remember the hours spent in the library, but you will always remember the fun times with people. I truly believe that I am more productive in school when I know that after those few hours of studying I have something to look forward to: new passions, leadership positions, laughs, fulfillment, and new people, among others.
Many people ask, how do you maintain the balance between your involvements and academics? Well, first of all, don’t overburden, you know your limits better than anybody else, but also, take off the pressure of excelling in all the activities and just do your best. Second, a planner/google calendar is a student’s best friend and the best tool to manage your time and organize your work; avoid procrastinating, instead try studying in small intervals. Don’t forget to also schedule breaks and time for yourself. But most importantly, be optimistic and open to exploring your skills and your balance between academics and activities.
Alpha Xi Delta has helped me a lot balancing my social and academic life. I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by my sisters who serve as role models for me. It is very motivating to see my sisters studying at the house, or sitting together in the library helping each other for an exam. Take advantage of the assistance from your sisters that are taking/have taken your classes, it will make your life a lot easier. On top of that, my sisters have taught me to have the courage to say ‘no’; nobody will judge you for prioritizing yourself as we all know that academics go first.
Some of my involvements on campus are Undergraduate Research, GT Campus Tour Guides, CHAARG, EXCEL Mentorship Program, GT Healthy Celebrations, and of course, Greek Life!
Undergraduate Research: I’ve loved getting hands-on experience in a Biomedical Eng. lab; it was a very rewarding way to get credits for my major and acquire a lot of knowledge and skills.
GT Campus Tour Guide: If you toured campus during Spring 23 or later, I was probably your tour guide! I love giving tours to prospective students and showing them what life as a student really feels like. I never got a campus tour, therefore, I want people to experience what I couldn’t and help them find their perfect fit.
CHAARG: I joined this women’s fitness org because a sister recommended it to me. I ended up loving it so much that I served as the VP Media during my sophomore year. Every Tuesday we go to a different studio in Atlanta and try different workouts, in addition to small group workouts, and socials.
EXCEL Mentorship Program: As part of EXCEL, I serve as a mentor for a GT student with intellectual and developmental disabilities supporting the student’s social growth, leadership development, and independent living skills. It is a unique experience to contribute to the community and serve as the bridge of inclusion.
GT Healthy Celebrations: If you love running like I do, or just want to get into it… join us walking/jogging/running 3ish miles. A great way to force yourself to get out of bed and get those steps in.
Alpha Xi Delta: My ‘home away from home’ at GT. Alpha Xi Delta is where I found my family, everybody made me feel a sense of belonging from day one. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such a strong group of passionate women who have become my family.
In conclusion, if you want a piece of advice from me… find what makes you happy and fulfills your soul on campus - and join it! you’ll see how your college life turns into your best experience :)
- Leire
