Freshman Ella Colclesser is ready to kick start her college career on and off the sports field. She's one of the first group of students to be directly admitted to the IU School of Nursing's BSN program. Earlier this month she was recognized as Under Armour's Runner of the Week by the Horizon League. Meet Ella Colclesser!
What led you to choose nursing?
I've always loved helping others to achieve things they couldn't do on their own. I started working as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) almost two years ago at a nursing home in my hometown. I enjoy doing that, but I want to go even further with my care!
How do you balance school and sports?
Balancing school and cross country was difficult the first week of school but what really helped me was getting a planner. I am now able to see everything I need to do and it helps me to be able to plan out when to eat, when to relax, and when to do homework/study.
Cross Country must be very rewarding for you – can you talk about why?
I have always been very competitive with my two older brothers, Max and Bryce. They both did cross country in elementary school, and so I followed in their footsteps and did it as well. My first year in fourth grade, Bryce was in fifth grade, and we did a time trial with everyone on the team. Bryce ended up being the fastest kid in the school, and I was the second. That is where my drive for "more" began. I wanted to be the fastest. That next year I was the fastest kid in the school and that feeling I got once I achieved that goal was amazing. Ever since then I have strived to feel that again. I have continued to set new goals and push myself every day to reach those. The feeling I get is super rewarding, but I am never satisfied. I set a new goal and the cycle never ends.
Anything else that you’d like to share about the recognition you received?
I was so shocked! I am very appreciative of this award, and I'm super excited to see the other recognitions/awards that my team and I will achieve throughout this season and the next four years!
We are so proud of Ella and thrilled that she's part of the IU School of Nursing!