Photo courtesy of Maria José Reyes.
I met Maria José Reyes during our first day at SCAD Atlanta during Fall 2013. Originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, Maria is now a senior fashion marketing and management major. With several internships, jobs and courses on her resume, it’s a wonder how she manages everything. A dedicated student and healthy eater, Maria offers some insights on what it takes to stay balanced.
Kamila Morell: You are involved in many activities (senior-level classes, president of Fashion Lux, internships, working at the gym … ) what is your approach to handling stress?
Maria Reyes: Being involved in multiple activities has the upside of helping me socialize, creating opportunities to discuss different topics. For handling stress, I walk everywhere. Walking helps me relax.
KM: What is your approach to being and staying healthy as the quarter progresses?
MR: I admit that being at SCAD makes it really hard to consistently attend the gym. This is why in order to stay healthy, I focus on walking and healthy eating. Before the week starts I prepare my meals; things like fresh veggies, quinoa and fish or chicken (I don’t eat pork or red meats). I’m a strong believer in not skipping meals, so this prepping process is really helpful. I also try to sleep eight hours every day, and drink a lot of water.
KM: Has working at the gym influenced your views on health/fitness?
MR: It made me research more ways to have fun workouts.
KM: Have you always been mindful about health/fitness or did you have a transition?
MR: I have always been mindful about health and fitness because my family are health freaks, especially my mom. It was part of my life growing up in Ecuador. But ever since I moved for college I have realized that being healthy can be really fun, and I love the specialty products you can find in places like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.
KM: What do you like to do to relax and decompress from your busy schedule?
MR: To relax I like to go outside for a run. Since I’m a very outdoorsy person I love going hiking, running or just for a nice walk. It’s good physically but also helps to clear the mind.