Haojing Han

Marathon Runner

I took up distance running when I began my PhD journey and quickly found it to be an effective antidote to the mental pressures of research. I've learned that by pushing my body to its limits, the resulting physical challenge can overshadow the mental stress, providing a unique form of clarity and resilience. This discipline is essential for surviving and thriving in a demanding academic career. It has carried me through the Austin Half Marathon in 2023 and 2024, and I am now training for the 2025 Chicago Marathon.

Personal Training

From an economic standpoint, becoming a certified trainer would be more valuable and sustainable long-term than the recurring expense of hiring one. I earned certifications as both a Personal Trainer and a Certified Nutrition Coach from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), allowing me to apply a rigorous, evidence-based approach to my own health.

Coffee Barista:

My journey into coffee began out of necessity. During the pandemic, I was taking classes remotely from China, which meant attending Zoom lectures in the middle of the night. I became a home barista to stay awake and actively participate in Zoom classes. There are no coffee shops open at 3 AM. Life is too short for terrible coffee!