By Francisca de Lluc Molina
New to CIS University but already making an impression, International Studies major Daniela Rubio is part of the Student Athlete Placement program as a dedicated track and field competitor. She secured 2nd place in the U20 Spanish National Club Championship, competing in both high jump and the 4×100 relay.
Changing schools can be quite intimidating, but Daniela’s focus and energy have helped her adapt quickly to both her academic and athletic life. In our conversation, she discusses her experience as a transfer student and how she balances her training sessions with her classes and academics in general.
What made you decide to transfer to CIS University?
I didn’t really enjoy the program at my previous university, but the one here is a much better fit for me. I was studying Biomedicine before, which is completely different from what I’m doing now. I also really like the American system, so CIS University felt like the perfect choice. Now I have been doing International Studies here since September, and I already feel like it aligns much better with my interests.
What was a normal day in your life like before you enrolled at CIS University?
A typical day for me before enrolling at CIS University was very structured. I would wake up early, study a bit, and then go to class. After classes, I’d grab lunch and spend the afternoon studying at the library. Later, I’d go to practice, and once I got home, I usually studied a bit more before going to bed.
How did you discover CIS University?
I discovered it through one of my childhood friends.
How has the transition been so far?
It’s been really good so far.
How did you first get involved in track and field?
I started because my dad used to run as well, so he encouraged me to get involved in it.
How do you balance being an athlete and your academic life?
It’s really hard to balance, so I don’t really have time to do much outside of track and university. It’s also really hard to try and balance my social life.
When you do have free time for yourself, what is it that you enjoy doing?
When I have free time, I enjoy doing different sports with my friends. Pilates is something that I’ve gotten into recently that I really enjoy. Another thing I really enjoy doing, but this is when I have more free time, is travelling. I love visiting different places and it brings an escape to my otherwise more structured, routine life.
What challenges have you faced as a student athlete?
Time management is a big thing. Managing my time well, so I can go to all my practices and also have time to keep up with my classes, is a big challenge; also factoring in having free time for myself and to keep up with my friends.
Do you feel that being an athlete has influenced your friendships on campus?
I’ve gotten to know other athletes in the program and made new friends. But also, it has taken a lot of time away from the friendships I have here at the university that aren’t part of the athletics program – having sometimes to leave early for practices or missing breaks because of things related to the program.
Finally, what advice would you give to other transfer students joining the university who are also athletes?
I’d say to try and manage your time well, that’s the most important thing you have to know how to do from the start and it’s also the hardest thing to do. If you’re able to manage your time well, you’ll be able to keep up with all your classes, as well as have time to indulge in your social life.
What are your hopes for the future?
My main goal is to learn how to better manage my time so I can do better in my classes and to keep improving in track and field.
It is clear that her passion and determination will take her very far, not only across the finish line but through any challenges that come her way.