What is your name, what are you studying and when was your first quarter at LIFE?

My name is Christian Barreto, I’m a 7th quarter Doctor of Chiropractic Student and I started at LIFE during Fall 2019.

Pursuing a degree is a time of tremendous transition for most students – what made your first quarter at LIFE memorable?

I would have to say the English language was one of the most difficult things that made me work. Comparing myself to fully bilingual students filled me with many fears and insecurities.

Also, having eight or nine exams in one week, a few hours of sleep, many hours of study and being away from my family for the first time. But at the end of all the sacrifice, we receive our rewards and learn to handle all of these challenges the right way.

What surprised you during your first quarter at LIFE?

I was very surprised at how fast the quarter goes by. Many times, we have too much to do that we don’t realize how fast time goes by, and in the blink of an eye, we are already finishing the quarter. I was greatly surprised that the University prepares you in all professional aspects. Not only the chiropractic side, but in the area of marketing, public speaking, the human side and how to achieve the best version of yourself.

What advice would you give to your younger self about college that you didn’t know before starting at LIFE?

I would tell him to find a way to divide his time into things that make him feel valuable. Sometimes we spend a lot of time studying, with anxiety and pressure to do our best. As human beings though, it is important to dedicate the time we deserve to things we enjoy, from doing simple things like exercise, watching a movie, making your favorite recipe, practicing yoga or going out to enjoy the attractions that the state has available. These are things that will help you manage your anxiety and make better use of your academic time.

Describe your first quarter in three words.

Challenges. I faced huge challenges that helped me find my strengths that I never thought I had.

Learning. It was not easy at all, but I felt like I became a “sponge” with all the knowledge I was starting to acquire. I feel humbled to know that all these doctors that are our professors have shared their knowledge and experiences with us in order to make us better every day.

Changes. When I finished my first quarter, I became a completely different person than the one I was before. I started to love and value the profession of Chiropractic even more. Now, I respect health more and try to treat my own body like a temple.

 

 

My 1st Quarter is a new campaign featuring students reflecting on their 1st quarter of studies at Life University and why it was so special and unique. All University students (undergraduates, graduates and D.C.) are encouraged to share their experiences in order to help those in future incoming classes get a real-life glimpse of what they can expect as they start a new chapter of their education journeys at LIFE.