“Life is all about balance,” says Abbey Kernahan. And Abbey should know, she has spent the past few years finding the right balance between her studies, paid employment and her two young children.
Abbey is in her final year of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science (BESS) degree.
The Tararua district born 27 year old says she ‘flunked out of school’ and became a mum at a very early age.
“However, I didn’t want to be a stereotypical young mum with no prospects,” she says. “I wanted to have a career and be a role model to my kids.”
At the age of 17 she gained a Certificate in Professional Cookery from UCOL and worked at a well-known Tararua bakery for two years. “It was a great job but I what I really wanted to do was to work in the health and wellness field.”
It was then Abbey decided to enrol in UCOL’s Certificate in Exercise and Sport Performance (CESP). She says she withstood many personal challenges during that year in addition to commuting from the Tararua district to study. “Let’s just say persistence and dedication got me through. My focus was always on the kids.”
After completing the CESP programme, she wanted to continue her UCOL studies and since starting the three year BESS degree, Abbey and her children have moved to Palmerston North. “It’s been a lot easier to organise and have balance in my life.”
Her ultimate career aim is to become a Physical Health Educator and, to achieve that goal she also plans to study Social Work and Mental Health. “I want to be able to help people in all aspects of their health.”
As part of the BESS programme, Abbey acts as a personal trainer for clients in the UCOL gym.
“I like to think I go that extra mile for people. I’m not judgemental and treat every individual with the care and attention they deserve,” she says.
In the meantime, the juggling act continues. “I tell my clients they need to find a good life balance,” she says. “I have to continue to follow my own advice.”