Running:

Running has been a large part of my life since high school. I would often go on runs to get outside, get some fresh air, and de-stress for the day. I remember how I first felt after running consistently - uplifted, energized, and clearheaded. I continued running in college on an occasional basis, enjoying jogging around my college campus, nearby streets, and nature paths close by. It was in my senior year of college, that I decided to sign up for my first race, the Love Run Philadelphia Half Marathon. All of my friends signed up —I looked forward to crossing the finish line with them. While the vision was in sight, unfortunately the event was cancelled a week prior due to Covid-19. Although disappointed, I had enjoyed the training period —I developed my aerobic fitness while cultivating resilience, perseverance, and self-compassion along the way.

When I moved to NYC in 2021, I was excited to explore new places for my weekly jogs and the running communities here. I glorified the views of Central Park and Riverside Highway alongside other runners in the early hours of the morning. I consistently felt uplifted and inspired by the runners around me —particularly on sunny Saturdays in Central Park. I channelled my motivation and enthusiasm during the Brooklyn Half-Marathon in Spring 2022, which I ran with two of my graduate school friends.

I wished to pay my passion forward, motivating me to become a coach for Girls on the Run NYC, an after-school physical activity-based youth development program designed to enhance girls’ social, psychological, and physical wellbeing. The lessons combine physical activities with skill-building opportunities focusing on identity, connectedness, and empowerment. Over the course of the program, the girls train for a 5k and complete a community impact project.

I was drawn towards Girls on the Run’s mission of helping young girls develop a love for sports and movement while also gaining confidence, competence, care, and connection. Over the two seasons I coached, I have witnessed and inspiring shift in the girls’ athleticism, spirit, and relationships with others. I am endlessly proud of all that the girls have accomplished —their smiles crossing the finish line and hugs received by parents have left a long-lasting impression on my heart. I realize how much of an impact this program makes for these girls and their families.

Running has become more than just sneakers on pavement —to me, it is camaraderie, community, drive, endurance, positivity, and appreciation.