Thriving in the Balance

Shenandoah University student-athletes are always engaged in a balancing act, as they integrate their athletic and academic responsibilities. However, there’s a particular intensity for undergraduate nursing student-athletes, who, like many Shenandoah students, not only begin their professional training in their first year, but are also in a highly technical program that requires intensive study as well as time in specialized labs and clinical rotations. 

Women’s lacrosse player and nursing student Gabriella Raspanti ’24 (shown above, right) said she chose Shenandoah because she knew the university would provide her with the resources needed to succeed both on the field and in the classroom. 

“I balance the intense obligations of both of these commitments by staying on top of what is required of me. Trying not to procrastinate and managing my time are essential,” said Raspanti, who added that communicating regularly with professors and coaches is also essential to her success. 

One of Raspanti’s women’s lacrosse teammates Mackenzie Dierberg ’23 (shown above, left) is also a nursing student who relies on a planner to maintain her strict schedule (which also includes time to relax). However, Dierberg admits that balancing so much isn’t always easy. “I don’t get to visit my family often because between class, lacrosse, my job, and organizations I’m involved with on campus, there isn’t a whole lot of time left. Most of my weekends are spent in the library or on the field, but the reward of a great test grade or playing time on the field always makes it worth it,” she said. Even so, Dierberg admits she has days when she struggles. “But having classmates and teammates who believe in you is the most comforting feeling in the world.” 

Raspanti agreed that a support system is vitally important to anyone interested in pursuing nursing and athletic excellence. “Having friends that are by your side and that you can talk to makes all the difference.” 

And ultimately, all the work is beyond worthwhile.

“This experience so far has taught me how to manage my time, be productive, be disciplined, appreciate those around me in these different environments, and to be present in whatever I am participating in,” Raspanti said. 

“Being a nursing student has taught me compassion, patience, and hard work,” Dierberg said. “I have learned more in the program than I ever imagined, and I am extremely proud to say I am a Shenandoah nursing student.”