Alina

Hi everyone! My name is Alina and I am a senior from the Bay Area, California. I am majoring in Kinesiology with a certificate in Athletic Healthcare, and am on the Physical Therapy track! Outside of this role, I’m involved with a variety of organizations such as the Pre PT Club, School of Education mentorship program, BUILD physical activity program, PR and Marketing for my sorority, and recently studied abroad in New Zealand! Some of my favorite things to do around campus are attend the sporting events and walk down State Street! 

From the moment I heard about UW-Madison and all the campus traditions, I knew that I would have to participate in “Jump Around”. In between the third and fourth quarters of any Badger football game, the song by House of Pain plays and the entire stadium erupts in cheers and jumping. It even shows up as seismic activity in the geology building nearby! Throughout the years, this tradition has become one of my most memorable college experiences. Whenever I hear that song today, I can still feel the vibration of the stands and the sheer passion of the students around me. 

As a senior who has spent a lot of time reflecting on how UW–Madison has impacted my life, the biggest piece of advice I can give is to put yourself out there. This school was founded on the Wisconsin Idea, that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Over the last four years, UW–Madison has given me the opportunity to participate in research, study abroad, make connections with faculty members, and develop my passions into a career. With over 1000 clubs on campus and resources at every corner, the best thing you can do is to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. I always say that “the people make the place” and I have truly met the most hardworking, curious, and passionate group of people on this campus. With graduation coming up, I cannot think of a more rewarding college experience, and I cannot imagine myself anywhere else. On Wisconsin!