# @ualbertastudents on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DF-42sXyxL_
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/26925391-ualbertastudents-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/6e49b12c2e.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-02-12T18:21:23.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** University of Alberta (@ualbertastudents) — https://gondola.cc/ualbertastudents

## Caption

“The defining essence of my being has always been rooted in one word: athlete. But when I arrived in Thailand for a semester abroad with the Alberta School of Business, I found myself in a culture where the concept of a “varsity athlete” didn’t exist. Stripped of that familiar label, I was forced to confront a question that had never fully surfaced: who am I, really? I realized my identity had been more tied to that role than I had ever known, and without it, I had to navigate the uncertain, yet liberating, territory of self discovery. Thailand, with its distinct customs and culture, felt worlds apart from everything I was used to in Canada. But, I immediately felt a sense of reassurance when I experienced the genuine hospitality, friendliness and generosity of Thai people. The meaningful conversations I had with people from around the world taught me that true worth isn’t in titles or possessions, but in our virtues and how we treat others. I am excited to bring this newfound mentality back to the U of A and beyond. I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunity to complete my degree while embracing such a transformative journey.”

Larissa is a fourth-year Business student majoring in Business Economics and Law and minoring in International Business. She is a member of the Varsity Track and Field Team and University of Alberta Athletic Board. #UAlberta

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 883
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 15

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| University of Alberta | @ualbertastudents | https://gondola.cc/ualbertastudents | University |
| Alex Pugliese | @aperspectiveyeg | https://gondola.cc/aperspectiveyeg | Photographer |

## Tags

ualberta

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