When Zulaykha Lemus-Vasquez arrives for her sessions each week, she’s not just leading exercises — she’s guiding someone toward a healthier life.
A senior at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC), Lemus-Vasquez works one-on-one with her client, helping improve strength, posture and confidence through a personalized fitness plan.
“Laura is getting stronger and doing great,” she said. “It’s important to meet clients where they are, understand their goals and help them set realistic expectations. I dug deep and did research on how to best support her. She’s always the first one here.”
Her client, Laura Taylor, said the experience has been transformative.
“I needed to get back into being active,” Taylor said. “This program has been a great boost. She has helped me with my posture and my core. I hear her in my head telling me to tighten my core and breathe from my chest. I’m even sharing what I’ve learned with my husband.”
Lemus-Vasquez is one of several students participating in a free, 10-week fitness program at GGC that pairs exercise science majors with community members. Twice a week, campus spaces are transformed into active training environments where students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Volunteers receive comprehensive fitness assessments — including blood pressure, body composition, cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, balance and flexibility — along with customized training plans. In return, students gain valuable hands-on experience.
According to Dr. Lauren Tapp, associate professor of exercise science, the program is designed to benefit both groups.
“From the first day to now, I see my students’ comfort level and confidence grow,” she said. “Their clinical skills increase, but just as important, they’re improving their soft skills.”
The program has been offered six times and has served about 40 community members, with plans to expand its reach.
For Emanuel Lizarralde, the experience has been equally impactful.
“This is my first time working with a client,” he said. “The social aspect has been my biggest adjustment because I’m more of an introvert and English is my second language. But this has helped me better express myself.”
Lizarralde, who will graduate next month, said his path to exercise science was not always clear.
“Originally, I was studying business, but many of my friends are physical therapists, athletic trainers and personal trainers,” he said. “I played soccer in high school, so I’ve always had an interest in these careers.”
For both students, the program represents more than academic training — it’s preparation for the future.
Lemus-Vasquez is set to begin physical therapy school just days before graduating May 15, while Lizarralde said the program has influenced his life beyond the classroom.
“The idea of fitness and better nutrition is new to my family,” he said. “Now we all understand the importance of exercise and nutrition. It’s something I’ve worked on personally because I want to take care of myself and set an example for my family and future clients.”