While the academic year was wrapping up, we were also completing our #RechargeCPP campaign. We have highlighted Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) students who are active at the Bronco Recreation and Intramural Complex (BRIC, Bldg. 42) in our Adventures and Aquatics departments, and for our final installment, we have selected a student who has experience with our Fitness and Sport Clubs departments, and who chooses to recharge by using the BRIC facilities during her free time.
Nataly Arellano Rodriguez is a fourth-year food and nutrition student with an emphasis in dietetics and a minor in physiology who has a true passion for the BRIC and all that the facility has to offer its members.
Arellano Rodriguez started working for Associated Students Inc. (ASI) Campus Recreation during her first year as an Intramural (IM) Sports official, and she now holds three positions at the BRIC: Sport Clubs supervisor, personal trainer and group fitness instructor. In addition to her various roles at the BRIC, she also works out using the facility and plays IM Sports every quarter.
Arellano Rodriguez using workout equipment at the BRIC
“I have always been into sports, but I’ve never really pinpointed how important health is to me as an individual,” Arellano Rodriguez stated. “If your health is good, then in general everything will be good. The BRIC has given me that. Not only is it a gym that you come work out in, but I’ve been able to create friendships.”
Arellano Rodriguez posing proudly in front of the Sport Clubs wall with club photos
With three positions at the BRIC, a full course load and being an active member of her sorority, Arellano Rodriguez recognizes the importance of taking the time to recharge, which she does during her time off at the BRIC. “I think that ‘recharge’ means going back to home inside of you and finding your way to find that motivation inside of you,” Arellano Rodriguez explained.
A focused Arellano Rodriguez lifting weights
To properly recharge, Arellano Rodriguez also stresses the importance of balance in one’s life. “For me, it is always about finding a balance. I am a very social person, but I am also very, very deep into my studies, and I like to believe that I am an overall well-rounded person,” she said. “Sometimes, as a fourth-year, things can get pretty hard. It is just about going through it knowing that things are going to be okay and not to sweat the small things. One grade isn’t going to determine who you are or where you go in life.”
This attitude has led Arellano Rodriguez to teach others in all aspects of their lives. “I love helping people learn new things. I love giving people a reason to come work out,” she stated. “Always remember that your health is your number one priority. If that’s going well, everything else will just follow along.”
BRIC members chatting with Arellano Rodriguez about Sport Clubs
While working at the BRIC, Arellano Rodriguez has found a sense of belonging that is unmatched. “I love the BRIC community. Personally, I’m here every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. I don’t go home because I feel at home. There are people who want to see the best in you, who have high expectations of you, but know that you can accomplish those expectations,” she said. “There is just so much this community has given me, that I don’t know where I would be if the BRIC wasn’t here,” she said reflectively. “I don’t think I could see my life without the BRIC.”
A member going in for a high five with Arellano Rodriguez after a personal training session
A strong advocate for all the BRIC has to offer, Arellano Rodriguez offered advice to those who don’t actively use the BRIC. “As college students, I know that it can get really hard. It can be hard to find time to work out, find time to eat a little bit healthier, but I believe that if you really want something, you will find time for it,” she said. “It is doable, it just starts in your mind. If you want to do it, if you believe you can, you’ll be able to do it.”
Arellano Rodriguez showing her strength and focus while deadlifting weights
While that concludes our student highlights for our #RechargeCPP campaign, we still want to hear from you, Broncos! If you have used the BRIC facilities to recharge amidst your busy schedule, share with us by using #RechargeCPP on Campus Rec’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages.
