CourtesyGabriela Malache, who goes by Gaby, is a Wichita native graduating with her BA in exercise science. She found it difficult to adapt to a fully online learning environment, but she took every advantage to step out of her comfort zone when she got back to campus, which she says other students should do as well.
Gaby is one of more than 1,400 students eligible for fall 2023 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
Hometown
Wichita
Major
Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science, minor in Psychology
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I was unsure of what exactly I wanted to do so I figured staying close to home would be better. Wichita State's size and tuition was also more ideal for me.
What has been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was having almost half of my college career be online due to COVID. Being a social person and having everything online for my first year and a half was not ideal. During COVID, I found myself doing the same routine at home over and over again, and it became very draining for me. This took a toll on my mental health and motivation for school in general. When things started opening back up and more in-person events started happening, I saw a big change in my mindset and performance for school and took all opportunities to be on campus. Although my first year and a half was challenging for me, it taught me to push through and keep working hard towards my degree. I knew that any of the challenges I faced during college would be worth it in the end.
What's your favorite off-campus location in Wichita?
Honestly, my house. At home, I enjoy spending time with family, friends and my pets. I have everything I need there, and I love being there.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m currently applying to physical therapy programs.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
Step out of your comfort zone. Join any and all clubs and organizations, take on leadership positions, and apply for new internships and jobs. I am a completely different person than I was as a freshman, and I am very grateful for the opportunities I’ve had. I have grown so much as a person by taking on new challenges and opportunities I usually wouldn't want to do.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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