I began distance running during my PhD and found it a powerful way to build clarity, discipline, and resilience. Marathon training has taught me to stay patient through uncertainty and consistent through long periods of effort, lessons that carry directly into research. I have completed multiple races, including the 2025 Chicago Marathon, the 2026 Austin Marathon, and the 2026 London Marathon.
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.
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!
