Page 14 - International Gym Activity Book

Q Aw i t h A&kashModiAge: 22Hometown: Morganville, NJ School: Stanford University Major: Mechanical EngineeringStats: 2017 Nissen-Emery Award Winner, 2017 American Cup Bronze medalist, 2016 US Olympic Team alternate, 5-time NCAA ChampionWho is your gymnastics role model and what do you admire about them?My role model is my cousin Raj Bhavsar, 2008 Olympic Bronze medalist. He went through some hard setbacks in the sport, but he never lost his drive to succeed. I strive to be as mentally tough and as committed as he was.What is your favorite part about gymnastics? such a hard sport that everyone involved in it has great respect for one another. Everyone wants to win, but at the end of the day, there is no animosity between gymnasts, just respect.You’ve been competing in both college gymnastics and elite gymnastics for the duration of your college career. How has it been balancing both? What advice do you have for those who are thinking about pursuing both college and elite gymnastics?I’ve actually found that the added weight of school helps my gymnastics. I love the sport so much that other activities to keep me occupied. During the breath of fresh air to be able to focus on gymnastics. By the end of the summer, though, I feel burnt out from only thinking about gymnastics, and it feels nice to be back in school. As far as managing the were with the course load intensity so that I wouldn’t overload myself. I’ve now found the perfect balance of school and gymnastics, and I’m thoroughly enjoying both! To those thinking of pursuing gymnastics at the highest level while continuing their education, I would say go for it. NCAA gymnastics has taught me to be a better competitor and has provided the stepping stone I need to be at the top of my game at the elite level. On the academic side, study something you love and don’t be afraid to challenge and manageable, and the skills you gain from one useful later on in life.14