Risa Matsumura

My name is Risa Matsumura and I am a proud UGA Bulldawg! I am a Human Development and Family Science major from Johns Creek, Georgia. I graduated from Northview High school and couldn't be happier to be where I am today. I have a passion for helping others and building relationships with people on a deeper level. I have experienced many hardships in my life that has taught me to be a better, more selfless individual. It does not take much to make me smile and I am extremely thankful for absolutely everything in my life- whther that be something little or big.

In high school, I was involved in the NEHS, Will To Live Foundation, SADD, Junior Civitan, Beta, Flood Student Missions, FCA, Class Council, Habitat for Humanity, Titan to Titan Mentor, Yearbook, and Kaleidescope. I took part in Track and Field, Swim and Dive and Volleyball all four years. I love all types of music, except jazz music (zZZ..). My favorite movie has got to be Lone Survivor. I can't wait for the new movie, American Sniper, to come out in January!!! I am very into war movies/books mainly because I had planned to serve in the Marines or the Navy after high school but could not do so due to a health issue. I am hopeful that my plans for the future will lead me to serve for the armed forces one day.

I live by the quote "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." It is incredible how many people go around from class to class or place to place pretending like they have everything together in their lives, when in reality, they're going through an extremely tough time. I have made it my personal goal to be able to be that friend who they can go to for absolutely anything and not feel like they have to put on a mask when they're with me. Plus, seeing someone else smile because you put it there is the best part about living.

Fun fact: I am the only person in my entire family (extended and immediate) to ever be born outside of Japan (California, born and raised!). I'm an andrenaline junkie and I love thrill seaking adventures! Camping and hiking are two of my favorite hobbies. I plan to own a pet lion one day and I would love to live in East Africa at some point in my life.

If all of that^ bored you, here are three things to remember: I LOVE food. I love YOU for who you are. & I will always be here for you.