Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be difficult, especially being a parent. For Yumi Jakobcic, taking advantage of the opportunities GVSU has to offer has helped her stay active, healthy, and sane in transitioning to a life with kids. Yumi works in the Office of Sustainability Practices as the Campus Sustainability Coordinator. This year, she has also taken on the role as the new Farmers Market Manager. She has been at Grand Valley for the past four years, on top of being a former student.

Of her involvement on campus, Yumi says, “One of the most fun things I’ve done was participate on GVSU’s Gazelle Girl team. I was paired with two students to train and run the Gazelle Girl 10k. We learned so much from each other and we all made it across the finish line.” She also loves going to the faculty and staff yoga classes. Taking action to lead a healthy lifestyle at home can be particularly challenging with little ones, so Yumi is thankful to have these opportunities on campus. “Before kids, I would throw on shoes and go for a run after work. With kids, I’m hauling out a stroller, putting on sunscreen, finding hats, changing diapers, packing water bottles, etc. just to get out the door.” Whether it be taking a break for yoga, or simply taking a walk around campus, these simple practices help her to feel more balanced and focused at work, and at home.

Yumi is particularly excited about this year’s Farmers Market, and is looking forward to her new role. The Farmers Market offers plenty of healthy, locally grown food choices throughout the summer months. She praises former market manager, Kay Hart, for her hard work in establishing the Farmers Market. Yumi encourages everyone to take advantage of all the opportunities offered at Grand Valley by visiting local vendors at the Farmers Market, to taking group fitness classes. “I’m sure I’m not even taking advantage of half of the opportunities, but the ones I’ve tried have really helped me to feel healthier.”