Balancing Books and Leadership: Axela’s Time at ISU
Introduction
Meet Axela, a fourth-year International Business Administration (IBA) student studying at I-Shou University. With a strong academic record and a passion for leadership, Axela has found ways to excel both in the classroom and outside of it. Let’s dive in and learn more about how she manages to balance her studies with extracurricular activities and what drives her to take on leadership roles.
"Academics are important, but extracurriculars help you apply what you learn in real-world situations."
Ambitious and Motivated
Axela is in her fourth year at I-Shou University, pursuing a degree in International Business Administration. Her biggest achievements at the university include becoming the president of the International Student Union (ISUISU) and leading one of the university’s biggest events, Cultural Ambassador. She has also been recognized on the Dean’s List for her academic performance, showcasing her commitment to both school and leadership.
Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars
When it comes to balancing her academics with extracurricular activities, Axela believes it’s important to prioritize and understand what you need at any given moment. “People often say it’s all about setting priorities, and I agree,” she says. “But it’s also about knowing yourself. Sometimes you need more focus on your studies, other times on a leadership role or personal activity. It’s like cooking—too much salt or pepper can spoil the taste, so you need to know when to add what.” For Axela, finding the right balance means paying attention to what she needs at the time and adjusting accordingly.
The Value of Extracurricular Activities
Axela believes extracurricular activities are a vital part of a student’s growth. “Academics are important, but extracurriculars help you apply what you learn in real-world situations,” she explains. She uses the example of a pilot: “A pilot spends months learning theory, but they can’t fly without hands-on training. Extracurriculars serve that purpose—they turn theory into practice.”
Being in leadership roles like ISUISU president has helped her develop skills in problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These experiences have also opened doors to networking and career development, which are valuable beyond university.
Why Students Should Join Extracurricular Activities
Extracurriculars aren’t just about personal enjoyment—they are key to developing skills that go beyond textbooks. “They allow you to develop leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills. These are things you can’t learn in class,” Axela says. “They also help you connect with others and see the bigger picture outside of academics.” For Axela, extracurriculars complement her studies, helping her grow and learn in ways that can’t be measured by grades alone.
Advice for Students Afraid of Taking On Too Much
Many students hesitate to take on extra responsibilities because they fear the stress it could cause. But Axela encourages students to push past their fears. “Stress happens when you have control over it but don’t take action. Try everything, because you won’t know what you’re good at until you try,” she advises.
By embracing challenges, students can discover their strengths and grow in ways they may not expect.
Final Thoughts: Achieving Success with Balance
Axela’s approach to balancing academics and leadership shows that it’s possible to excel in both. Success isn’t just about focusing on one thing—it’s about finding the balance that works for you. “It’s about doing what you love, challenging yourself, and learning from both your studies and real-world experiences,” she says.
Conclusion
Her advice to students is simple: “Know what’s important, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. You won’t know what you’re capable of until you try.”
By balancing academics and extracurricular activities, students can prepare themselves for a successful future—just as Axela has done during her time at I-Shou University.
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