Riana Abeshima

I balance school and personal life by creating a routine that includes reset days, time with friends, and fun activities outside of studying. I try to do a little bit of studying each day and take the material day by day so I do not feel overwhelmed later on. This approach has allowed me to make plenty of time for things outside of school. Building a strong support network and finding what works for you early on sets you up to be a successful student both inside and outside the classroom.

Club opportunities are incredibly diverse and there is something for every interest. Clubs offer many chances to gain hands on experience, and I used them as a way to build confidence in areas where I did not feel as comfortable. Through these clubs, I was able to attend lunch lectures, participate in labs, and join activities outside of school. There truly is a club for everyone, and many of us choose to be involved in more than one because the experiences are so valuable.

I like living in Pullman because the small community creates a safe, welcoming environment that feels far removed from the stress of a busy city. The town is centered around the university, which makes it easy to build strong, meaningful friendships and feel connected to the people around you. It’s the kind of place where you can settle into a routine, feel supported, and truly feel like you belong.