Freshman year, we become hermits of our own comfort zones; we come out only for food (at designated block times) and the occasional class. However, there are exceptions; those that leave their comfort zones and simply never return, perpetually in a beneficial state of discomfort. Ronny Ho is that exception. Ho is a senior Business Administration major, with a Track in Finance, doubling in Human Computer Interactions.
As a freshman, Ronny Ho joined four different leadership organizations. Sophomore year, she became involved in seven organizations, founding one of those seven. And junior year she was a member of six. This year, as a senior, Ho is a Resident Assistant for Doherty Apartments, an AB Concerts Chair, a Delta Gamma Director for Crews and Scholarship and a “Smart Woman Securities” Chief Development Officer. Quite a mouthful.
“It is so easy to get stuck in your comfort zone – but make yourself uncomfortable. Take on positions, do things you wouldn’t imagine yourself doing, do things you are passionate about even though your friends might not love it. Challenge yourself. You learn so much from getting out of your comfort zone, especially about yourself, and it just takes you places you wouldn’t imagine.”
Ronny has an impactful presence on campus. Not only are her work ethic and brains contingent with the Carnegie Mellon standard, but the respect and admiration that she receives from her peers is beyond description. Her fellow sister of Delta Gamma, Abby Volynsky said, “Ronny is an amazing sister. She always helps anyone in need. Ronny is the real deal.” Another sister, Alex Arkhangelskaya had something similar to say, “I’ve known Ronny since my first day at CMU, and I don’t know what I would have done without her. She’s bee there for me through everything and is ready to drop anything at a moments notice to help her friends. Ho epitomizes CMU values in and outside of the Tepper classrooms.
After graduating, Ronny plans to move back to New York City and work in the financial services industry. But like the rest of us, Ho has her fears, “I’m scared. I feel like I’ve always had something lined up for me my entire life, but after I graduate and start working, I have no idea what’s coming next.” But judging by her college journey, Ho will escape the confines of her comfort zone, yet again, and revel in the freedom of being uncomfortable.