Under the watchful eye of an 8^th Dan Master, in the unfamiliar surroundings of Falkirk, QUB Taekwondo’s Michelle De La Vega earned recognition and hit new heights. But completing her first Dan black belt was no easy feat.

BY NEIL BRANNIGAN

Michelle is originally from Boston MA, and came to Belfast to complete a PhD in Biomedical Sciences/Cancer Biology. It was in Boston that she began Tae Kwon Do training, and after just four years she has achieved what all martial artists aim for.

Michelle recalls when she first arrived in Belfast and how signing up to the Queen’s club was her priority. She believes that finding a balance between university life and extra-curricular activities is crucial. “Without training I would not be able to study. Everyone needs something else besides class, or else you become too stressed.”

Throughout the process of grading, Michelle admits to her feelings of uncertainty and the constant instinct that things could have gone better. She said, “Once you throw nerves into the mix, everything seems more difficult; confidence is everything.”

Michelle De La Vega is certainly no stranger to competition. In addition to her grading she has won multiple awards in Poomase (patterns) as well as sparring medals. Coming third at the Scottish Poomase Championships the day after grading demonstrates the sheer determination required for Tae Kwon Do. However, two gold medals from the British Nationals and other awards ensure this hard work does not go unnoticed.

Though heavily involved in competing in Tae Kwon Do on the national stage, De La Vega also recognizes the social aspect of her sport. She is currently President of Queen’s TaeKwonDo club, and is keen to welcome all newcomers along to the “fantastic” society that has helped her reach undisputed levels.

Competitions are frequent and promotions earned; university is not just for class, but also for personal development. Michelle De La Vega’s story is not just one of individual motivation and achievement throughout Queen’s, but an example for all students from all societies.