Student Voices: Julianna Mercado
Second-year student, Julianna Mercado, shares the value she’s found in the School’s Run Club
Story by Julianna Mercado | Published August 13, 2024
Student Voices gives first-person perspectives written by the students of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy. For this piece, we hear from second-year student, Julianna Mercado, about finding community and connection through running.
When I’m not studying or working at the hospital, I’ve been using my free time to train for the Tar Heel 10 Miler and the Brooklyn Half in NYC! Running has been a way for me to not only destress but also spend time with peers outside the classroom. My pharmacy peers have been incredible supporters, whether we’re running together through Chapel Hill’s elevation changes or cheering each other on to push to the finish line, even when we felt like quitting.
My journey with running began a few years ago when I was looking for a way to stay active and manage the stress of a demanding academic schedule. Initially, it was tough to get into a routine, but the sense of accomplishment after each run kept me going. Over time, running transformed from a mere exercise activity into a passion that I deeply cherish.
The Tar Heel 10-Miler and the Brooklyn Half were both incredible experiences. The Tar Heel 10-Miler, with its challenging hills, tested my endurance and mental fortitude. Crossing the finish line felt like conquering a mountain. The Brooklyn Half, on the other hand, was a vibrant and energetic race with breathtaking views of New York City and its iconic bridges. The support from the crowd and the sheer excitement of running through such a dynamic city made it unforgettable.
Running is important to me because it offers a unique combination of physical challenge and mental relaxation. It allows me to clear my mind and focus solely on what’s in front of me. It’s my way of resetting and recharging, making me more productive and focused in my studies and my work.
Through Eshelman School of Pharmacy Run Club and my classmates, I’ve had the opportunity to meet new people outside of Kerr 1001! The camaraderie running fosters has helped me share that runner’s high with others. The Run Club brings together students of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a beginner, there’s a place for everyone. We’ve met once a week for group runs, where we not only push each other to improve but also build strong connections among classes. I’ve met so many students from the pharmacy school through the Run Club that I would not have met otherwise!
Another aspect the Run Club offers is the opportunity to explore new areas around the Triangle! My favorite places to run are the American Tobacco Trail and the Bolin Creek Trail. The American Tobacco Trail is a 22-mile path through the Triangle that is relatively flat, making it perfect for running, walking, and biking. The Bolin Creek Trail, located in the heart of Chapel Hill, offers a wonderful chance to explore different areas of town that I might not have discovered otherwise.
Running has truly been a transformative journey for me, blending fitness, friendship, and personal growth. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next and to continue sharing these experiences!