Member Monday - Kimi Sanden

In addition to being an active ISU PRSSA member, Kimi Sanden is a student-athlete and public relations intern for the ISU Redbird Hockey team. Who said doing it all was impossible? Sanden proves them wrong by balancing her time with everything she enjoys.

Tell us about yourself.

I am from Manilus, Ill. where I attended high school, danced and ran cross country. I am a part of ISU’s cross country and track teams. I originally wanted to study physical therapy, but after joining ISU PRSSA my sophomore year, I realized that public relations was what I wanted to do. I have studied abroad in London, Paris and Amsterdam, which was the most interesting experience of my life!

How do you maintain in peak physical fitness while balancing school, ISU PRSSA and your internship?

I think it’s important to stay stress-free and learn when to say no. Staying organized is important too. I stay healthy and in shape by running an average of 55 miles each week. In addition to running, I usually go to the gym where I bench-press, squat and do other strength-building exercises. I also try to have a balanced sleep schedule. Sleep is the most important to me because it helps me stay focused and alert with my daily responsibilities.

How has running for ISU influenced the other things of which you are a part?

I feel as if I have gained a better experience of what ISU has to offer. My involvement with track and cross country allows me to have a reputation for hard work amongst my peers. It has given me confidence to branch out and become involved in other things on campus too.

Tell us about your internship with the ISU Redbird Hockey team.

I am the public relations intern for the ISU Redbird Hockey team. This position gives me experience with working in sports public relations. I assist in the creation of press releases, promotions, advertisement, sponsors, professional relationships and more. Outside of weekly intern meetings, I attend every home game where I assist with in-game operations.

Have you experienced a moment in which you overcame a barrier that you thought was insurmountable?

Running is 90 percent mental. Confidence is what enabled me to overcome any doubts I had. You do not realize what you are capable of until you try. I push myself a little bit each time I run. For a while, my longest run had been 11 miles. Over the summer I decided it was time to push my limits. One day as I was running, I decided I would attain that goal and make it to 12 miles. Despite how my body felt or what my mind told me, I knew I could reach it. I apply this mentality to areas other than just running. Your mind is a powerful tool and when you believe in yourself and push your limits the outcomes will surprise you!

Questions composed by Eric McEwen

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