Finding a balance within life can be difficult at times but can be achieved. Sophia Rubio (11), has found that balance between academics and extracurriculars for herself. When stress is present in Rubio’s life, she chooses to take it slow.
“Balancing academics and extracurriculars can be hard at times, but I’ve had to learn to take things day by day and not get overwhelmed by all the things I have to do for the week or month,” Rubio said. “It’s easy to get flustered by all the work but by staying in the moment, and taking things as they come, it is better for mental health and managing stress that comes with all the work and activities.”
From activities in and out of school, Rubio is also involved in the Spell Bowl. She dedicated her time to studying the words for Spell Bowl and found what worked best for her.
“My family is super helpful for spell bowl practices and will read the words aloud to me for me to write down. It’s all about repetition honestly though, so I’ll highlight words I’ve missed and go over them until I get them,” Rubio said. “Mr. Lambersie is also super helpful with studying because he tries to predict which words will appear at the competitions and gives us a curated list to really study on.”
In school, Rubio spends time in the orchestra room. She enjoys playing the viola and is a member of the CPHS’s orchestra.
“My favorite piece has probably been the “Waltz of the Flowers” from the Nutcracker,” Rubio said. “It was such a beautiful piece, and I loved the blend between the strings and winds.”
Advancing in her musical career, Rubio also participated in her first year of Marching Band. She recalls all the memories from her experience of being in the Marching Band.
“I’ve been marching for one year, and for one of our pre-game shows by the bulldog, we played “Hooked on a Feeling.” And the pit and I got to do the chant at the start which was exciting,” Rubio said.
In addition, Rubio partakes in the Speech and Debate team at CPHS. She has learned to stay calm and is reminded that it is easy to become overwhelmed, but she is determined to overcome this challenge.
“I compete in speech events for the most part and my secret to staying calm is just reminding myself that I can do it and whatever the outcome, at least I tried my best and put my best foot forward,” Rubio said. “It’s easy to get overwhelmed because there’s so many other kids competing that are all so talented as well, but everyone is such a good sport and super supportive.”
Outside of school, Rubio is also active in the National Honors Society. She enjoyed directing the freshmen by giving them helpful tips to use in high school and tried to make the freshmen feel welcome.
“My best NHS memory was probably hosting Bulldog Rush for the incoming freshman and being a presenter. My friends and I tried to make the information as cohesive and easy as possible, as well as make it funny and make the students less nervous. Preparing before and in between sessions was fun because I got to bond with friends too,” Rubio said.
When not doing an in-school activity or after-school club, Rubio might be found with the swim team.
“The feeling of finishing a race can be described as proud. I know I just gave my all during the race and tried my best. I try not to let the time I got get to my head too much, and just remember that as long as I raced my best, I can be proud,” Rubio said.
With the effort she has put forth towards her out-of-school clubs, swimming, and her co-curriculars, orchestra, and marching band, Rubio knows how to manage her time efficiently. She has also found a balance between her in-and-out of school activities that not only suits her, but helps alleviate the stress.
