The Art of Balancing it All

Born in the Philippines, Ryssa Alarcon was aware of the many challenges faced throughout the country. As she then went on to live in Dubai, Toronto, Oakville, and eventually Saskatoon, Alarcon views her life in Canada through a lens of gratitude, “I know the lengths that my parents went through to bring me here, so they are part of my inspiration as I strive for success,”. Alarcon began her journey through the Junior Achievement Entrepreneurship Program in Saskatchewan, participating for four years and eventually holding the VP Marketing and President roles. She earned several awards for her skills and leadership, including the Marketing Excellence and Professional Leadership awards.

For Alarcon, the decision to pursue grad studies was an easy one. “When I obtained my Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing at the Edwards School of Business, I wanted to go more in-depth and further my expertise in the marketing field, while also gain more formal leadership training. Therefore, I decided to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA).” Alarcon began her journey with Georgia Southwestern State University in the fall of 2021 with an expected graduation date in 2023.

Alarcon is an active member of the Saskatoon community, constantly seeking out opportunities to connect with others and raise awareness for worthy causes. “With experience volunteering for organizations like the Saskatoon Friendship Inn, Dress for Success, and Make-A-Wish in community representative and event assistant roles, I can see how much people take care of one another.” Alarcon is a powerful advocate for education and women empowerment, as well as for those affected by poverty and childhood illness and disability.

When she’s not volunteering within the community, Alarcon finds creative new ways to give back to others. In 2021, she founded R lifestyle co., a small business aimed at empowering women and supporting women-focused charities in Saskatchewan. “So far, I have participated in YXE Women’s Week and Catherine’s Cause Auction, donated to the Saskatoon Interval House, sponsored the Volunteer Re-branding Training Session for the Princess Shop, featured Indigenous entrepreneurs, and raised funds for many other charities.” R lifestyle co. has already been featured by Young Women in Business, Modern Woman Show, and the Saskatoon Star Phoenix.

Despite juggling a busy schedule and a hectic workload, Alarcon remains a beacon of positivity for others in her life and finds time to enjoy the little things. “On days that I feel overwhelmed or stressed, I like to sing and play the guitar or attend fitness classes at places like PEAK Climb + HIIT and Local Barre. I will also go on little adventures with my family or friends and spend some time in nature!”. Like many grad students, Alarcon is motivated to balance it all by her passion for her work, “When you love what you are involved in, it is such a fulfilling feeling!”.

As a life-long learner, Alarcon works to inspire other learners when she can. When asked about advice she may have for other grad students, Alarcon said, “Take what you learn from the books and apply what you can in real life! Sometimes, we get caught up with grades and due dates (which are, of course, still important), that we forget the true purpose of our learning. It is important to immerse in the knowledge and seek out experiential opportunities.”