Maria, an accomplished academic and athlete, shares her unique journey from growing up in an immigrant family with a focus on academics to discovering her passion for kinesiology, linguistics, and endurance sports.

She discusses her teaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of a supportive classroom environment, and offers practical tips for language learning and effective communication. Maria also delves into her transition from running to triathlons, highlighting the mental strategies that help her balance her rigorous academic and athletic pursuits. 

Takeaways

• Representation is important, and sharing personal stories can help amplify underrepresented voices.
• Academics and athletics can be seen as competing paths to success, but finding a balance and pursuing one's passions is key.
• Creating a comfortable and supportive classroom environment is crucial for effective teaching and learning.
• Effective communication involves eye contact, storytelling, and conveying enthusiasm.
• Language learning requires a growth mindset, immersion, and consistency.
• Running and triathlon can be pursued as individual passions and can complement each other. Establishing a purpose and knowing what you want is key to finding a balance between personal and professional goals.
• Waking up early and prioritizing training in the morning can help create a consistent routine.
• Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can provide motivation and accountability.
• Using mental strategies like positive self-talk and focusing on the present moment can help push through challenges during races.
• Community building and mentorship can enhance the overall experience and create a richer life.

Follow Me At:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aldoschandra/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aldochandra

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aldochandra

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaizenblueprint

Website: https://kaizenblueprint.com

Follow Maria Parez Fernandez:

Instagram:https:https://www.instagram.com/mfp131/

Chapters

00:00 Growing up in an Immigrant Family

06:24 Balancing Academics and Athletics

13:44 Teaching and Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment

18:31 Effective Communication: Eye Contact, Storytelling, and Enthusiasm

24:10 Language Learning: Growth Mindset, Immersion, and Consistency

31:57 From Running to Triathlon: Pursuing Individual Passions

34:24 Balancing Academic Pursuits and Training

45:40 Transitioning to Triathlons and Setting Higher Goals

56:19 The Power of a Supportive Community

01:04:36 Community Building and Mentorship