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College introduced unexpected challenges

Born to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic, my childhood was carefree—a mix of picky eating, processed snacks, fast food, and a backdrop of an active lifestyle and academic success. College introduced unexpected challenges, with the notorious “freshman 15” leading me into a toxic encounter with diet culture. An innocent remark from my mother set the stage for a decade-long battle with food, body image, and an unyielding pursuit of perfection.

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The grapefruit diet

The grapefruit diet, initially appearing as a quick fix, entangled me in a cycle of binging, restricting, and overexercising. Post-college uncertainties loomed, but a role at Lululemon reignited my passion for wellness, propelling me to become a certified integrative health coach. Eager to delve into the science behind nutrition, I applied to my dream Master’s program for Nutrition and Dietetics, yet the universe decided to delay the timing.
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Choosing the corporate path

Choosing the corporate path with a role at Nielsen, initially a dream, took its toll. The relentless pursuit of success compelled me to sacrifice my well-being, resulting in stress, depression, noticeable weight gain, and unhealthy eating patterns. An opportunity at a Hispanic media company followed, yet I discovered I felt unhappy, unfulfilled, and unchallenged. Attempting to fill the void triggered obsessive behavior around the scale, excessive alcohol consumption, mindless spending, carb restriction, prioritizing exercise over sleep, compensatory workouts, feeling disgust in my body, and using food as a source of solace. Trapped in this vicious cycle, I felt disconnected from myself—body, mind, and soul.
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My journey to better well-being

Then, one morning, a life-altering revelation struck me: “’I can’t do this anymore.” No more guilt, stress, shame, or fear around food. My now-husband mirrored my struggles, becoming the catalyst for my commitment to heal and embody resilience. Embracing the intuitive eating of my childhood became my rebellion. This spark ignited a determination not just to exist but to thrive. My journey to better well-being isn’t merely a path; it’s a blazing passion fueled by inspiration and purpose.”

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Reapplying to the NYU Master’s Program

The decision to reapply to the NYU Master’s Program marked a pivotal moment. Acceptance into the Spring 2020 semester coincided with a global shutdown—a blessing in disguise. Remote work and schooling provided the space for my personal growth. Coaching my fiancé toward a positive transformation in his relationship with food and embracing a more balanced lifestyle reassured me that going back to school to fulfill my passion was exactly what I needed to feel realigned.
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My journey is a testament to resilience

My journey is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and an unwavering belief that dreams are worth pursuing, even when the timing seems uncertain. Gratitude fills me for the abundant support extended by my corporate job, Televisa Univision, allowing me to balance full-time work with part-time school commitments seamlessly. Additionally, I savor the opportunities to intertwine my passion for health and nutrition with corporate wellness, presenting to colleagues and providing counseling and support.”