Star City 6 – Allie Buesing
Southeast Community College (www.southeast.edu) plays a vital role in our community by bridging the higher education affordability gap and filling a need for a qualified workforce in Nebraska. Allie Buesing is the Wellness Coordinator at Southeast Community College.
Tell us a little about your role at SCC.
In my position I assist, motivate and inform students on the importance of health and wellness. Students can get exercise programming, health assessments and personal training all free of charge. Many programs are developed for students throughout the quarter that educate them on all aspects of wellness, including stress relief, nutrition, giving back to a good cause, and much more. I aspire to motivate others to live a balanced and well-rounded, healthy lifestyle.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Changing the mindset of individuals when it comes to health and wellness. Everyone wants a quick fix, or six-pack abs, or to try the latest greatest program out there. When you tell people that this is a lifestyle and you won’t see results in four weeks, they tend to get frustrated. A lot of individuals don’t understand that health and wellness is a journey that is unique and individualized. What works for one person may not work for you. It’s hard at times to break stereotypes in the industry and educate individuals on the science.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Landing this job has been a huge achievement for me. It has allowed me to pursue a career with my degree, knowledge and passion.
Tell us a little about your family.
My family is from Cozad, NE. My parents are successful business owners of Grow and Mow Lawn Service. I have a brother who is two years older who manages a salvage yard in Cozad.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
I have two. When I overcame childhood obesity, I realized that health and wellness doesn’t have to be obsessive and found a good balance in life. Then in college I received many awards and recognition for various activities, and that showed me that I had leadership ability and potential.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I like to get in a good workout. If it’s nice I like to spend time outdoors at the park or walking trails. I like to do yoga, refurbish/decorate furniture, cook, and spend the day with my boyfriend.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I can twirl a baton.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself, be patient, and don’t worry, because things will always work out just how they are supposed to in the end.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Strong.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I’m passionate about any non-profit organization that focuses on childhood obesity, just from my own life experience as an obese child.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
I’m currently reading The New Rules of Lifting for Women by Alwyn Cosgrove, Cassandra Forsythe, and Lou Schuler.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Hacienda Real.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Via email at abuesing@southeast.edu. I also have a new personal blog about balance within health and wellness called Ying Yang and Everything Between. You can check it out at yingyangeverythingbewteen.blogspot.com.