Age: 21

Hometown: Chester, CT

College: Northeastern University

Major: Health Science/International Affairs

Year: Middler (Northeastern is a 5-Year School)

Sorority: Delta Zeta

Instagram: @sorbet_shea

 Hashtag: #strongmovementneu

Tell us about yourself!

Hello!! I’m Shea, and I’m a 21-year old in love with nutrition and fitness. In my free time I’m usually out at brunch, on Newbury Street, in the gym, riding a horse, or in a Starbucks.

What does “Strong” mean to you and what makes you a Strong Girl?

Strong means being persistent, following your heart, and doing what’s right for you, no matter what.

What excites you about being a Strong Girl Campus Ambassador?

So many women feel self-conscious and unsure of themselves, and that tends to keep them from pursuing the things that they want. As a Strong Girl Campus Ambassador, I’m so excited to help women find the confidence to try new things and kill it in the gym!

What is your favorite thing about The Strong Movement™?

I love the fact that The Strong Movement focuses on gaining instead of losing. Instead of trying to lose 5, 10, 15, or however many pounds, the focus is shifted on gaining strength and confidence. A positive mindset can do amazing things for your success!

How do you envision The Strong Movement™ growing on your campus as a community of motivated, encouraging and supportive group of girls?

Our Northeastern girls are motivated, hungry to make the most of their careers and their lives, and incredibly supportive. My hope is that we can create a community of encouraging women who advocate for themselves while standing behind other women and supporting them.

When did you discover fitness & healthy living and decide to make it part of your lifestyle?

I’ve always been involved in sports like horseback riding and lacrosse, but fell off track when I got to college. Then in January 2015, I bit the bullet and committed to my health and my body. I was working out regularly with intense (but short) workouts, ate a well-balanced vegan diet, and in a few months, I was addicted to the feeling of a great workout!

How has exercise and healthy living increased your confidence and self-esteem?

Exercise has made me believe in myself. I never thought I’d be able to do push ups, but I’ve been amazed by how quickly my body has been able to become stronger. I’m proud of what I’m capable of doing! And now that I’ve learned to focus on my body for what it’s capable of, rather than the faults it might have, I’m not trying to hide it anymore.

What challenges and/or injuries have you had to overcome on your fit journey?

In high school, I sustained 5 concussions that seriously compromised the activities that I’m allowed to do. My reaction time slowed down and my memory began to suffer. Then I began to have knee pain on a regular basis, and began physical therapy. But with proper nutrition, education about stretches and foam rolling, and a whole lot of patience, I’ve learned to take care of my body while continuing to strengthen it. By looking at fitness as a journey instead of a destination, every setback feels more like a detour and less like a derailing.

What keeps you motivated when the going gets tough?

My friends and my community! I began a “fitness” Instagram in January 2015 and have met incredible people who always support me through the tough stuff. And I’d be no where without my friends, who are there to laugh at the silly stuff with me and guide me through the hard stuff.

What do you love about your body?

I love that my body is always getting stronger!

What do you wake up looking forward to and excited about everyday?

Usually I’m looking forward to my Starbucks latte (lol), but I’m always excited to go exploring around Boston with my friends and get to the gym!

Do you have any daily rituals?

My day usually starts with a 6:30am gym session and a big glass of water, followed by a large coffee. It’s so much easier to get to the gym before anything can distract you! And at night, I try to write in my journal. It could be one word, something I learned that day, or even a shopping list. Putting my thoughts on paper right before I fall asleep helps my mind rest.

SPEED ROUND…

Favorite Workout: Plyometrics! (holla at you, burpees)

Fit Goal: Eventually I’d love to do 5 unassisted chin ups.

Favorite Workout Song Playlist Right Now: Ah Yeah So What by Will Sparks

Favorite Healthy Snack: Fresh Fruit

Favorite Fruit/Veggie: Avocado!!!

Favorite Quote: “Eat clean. Stay fit. And have a burger to stay sane.” – Gigi Hadid