Sadie with Derby Girls Team

About Me
My name is Sadie Svymbersky and I am a Junior at WSU. I am currently in the TAP program and working as a para at an elementary school for the Derby USD 260 school district. I also am the 8th grade girl's Derby basketball coach. I love to spend time with loved ones, stay active with pickleball, play cards, and go on new adventures.
 
What are your go-to study tips?
My favorite ways to study are using flashcards and notetaking with doodles. This helps me match the pictures with the notes for added repetition.
 
What helps you recharge during stressful times?
During stressful periods I like to make sure I am taking time to recharge. I make time to attend a CrossFit class to help keep my stress level at bay.
 
How do you celebrate the small and big wins?
I do my best to celebrate my wins with gratitude, I have a lot of support from my mentors and a village around me. I am thankful to those who help me get those wins. 
 
At what point in your life were you inspired or motivated to go to school and/or return to finish your degree?
I was motivated to attend school directly after high school to play college sports, but after I suffered an injury that required two surgeries, I lost what I thought was my purpose. I had to come to find out that everything happens for a reason, and I am right where I am supposed to be. I started working in an elementary school as a para the next year and was informed about the TAP program and immediately became motivated to pursue that path. I hope to be students' biggest supporter and help them achieve their goals in the classroom.
 
What were your fears about returning to school and did they fade away once you got started in your education goals?
I was a little nervous about taking all of my classes online, as I am a very social person and learn best in the classroom setting. It has turned out to be a smooth transition and the professors make sure information is communicated clearly and concise. If I have any trouble, there are so many resources and ways, I can get help.
 
How have you balanced your current responsibilities, such as work or family commitments with your academic pursuits?
I have a lot of responsibilities to balance, so it can be very tricky staying on top of everything. On top of being a para and classwork, I am the head girl's 8th grade coach for Derby, I work for our after-school program, I coach soccer, and have my own social/family life I have to balance. To do this I must make sure I have important due dates and events all written down in a planner and on my phone calendar. I also have reminders set for important events. I have a great support system that helps me whenever and however they can, my church family is awesome, and I have a great staff that helps mentor me with new ideas. I am extremely excited to have my own classroom and encourage students. I want to be that positive impact.