Student Spotlight – Katy Holden
Our next Student Spotlight is Katy Holden with Recreation Services at the University of Kansas (Lawrence, KS). Katy is a 3rd year doctoral student in Health, Sport and Exercise Psychology and works as a KU Fit Instructor (group fitness). In addition to being an instructor for KU Recreation Services, Katy also holds a graduate teaching assistant position with the Health, Sport and Exercise Science Department.
Katy found her path into recreation early on in her college experience. While she understood the benefits of physical activity, Katy never really fell in love with the act of exercising until attending free group fitness classes at Tarleton State University (Stephenville, TX). After being a participant and networking with the instructors, Katy discovered that many of them were graduating; she transitioned from being “purple pre-wrap girl” (“I always wore a headband made of pre-wrap”) to an instructor herself, adding HIIT, cycling and trampoline fitness to her class list.
Katy’s experience as an instructor (in year #7), in conjunction with her master’s degree focus on mental health counseling, led her to discover a passion and the ultimate direction for her PhD in Health, Sport and Exercise Psychology. After her time at Tartleton State, Katy began at the University of Kansas, where she continued her role as a group exercise instructor.
Region IV has been a home to Katy, and this network has been so impactful for her. “My network consists of professional staff at the Rec, my fellow student coworkers, my group exercise participants, and the recreation (members). Multiply that by two since I’ve worked at two different universities. Finally, being involved in NIRSA multiplies those networks immensely. I always say that once you create a relationship with someone, you absorb their network…Due to my extensive network, I have been given countless opportunities.”
Region IV “has a special place in my heart.” It’s where she got her start, and it “embodies close-knit family bond. In my experience, Region IV does a phenomenal job of encouraging and preparing students to take leadership roles, get involved in conferences, and promoting their students in order to help them transfer into graduate positions and occupational roles.”
When asked for a piece of advice, Katy urged students to never pass up an opportunity to work for campus recreation, and to get involved once a student employee. On top of the opportunities for advancement and skill development, “even more influential are the opportunities to attend, present and network at state, regional and (the Annual) conferences. All areas of recreation teach skills that translate to all occupations. As a group fitness instructor, I have learned how to sell my skills and abilities as my position depends on recurring and consistent participation. Not only do I need to know how to advertise myself and all my classes, but I need to ensure that participants repeatedly attend class, meaning I have gained many skills in relationship building.”
Region IV has provided a home for Katy, and we are proud to have her as part of our family!
