Year: Class of 2026
Major: Biology
Minor: Medical Humanities
What classes do you teach?
I teach Dark Room Cycle.
How has being a BearFIT instructor impacted your student experience?
Being an instructor has completely changed my experience at WashU for the better. I literally cannot imagine life without it now. It’s my favorite part of the week. I get to tap into a creative side of myself that I don’t usually access because of my class schedule and everyday responsibilities. This space allows me to challenge myself, but also to push others in the class in ways they might not typically expect.
Being a BearFIT instructor has taught me to lead not only by example, but also by listening. I try to gauge the vibe of the class, ask how everyone is feeling and adapt as we go.
– Keysha Gem Patel
Do you think being a BearFIT instructor has impacted your leadership skills?
Being a BearFIT instructor has taught me to lead not only by example, but also by listening. I try to gauge the vibe of the class, ask how everyone is feeling, and adapt as we go. This helps me guide them through the workout while encouraging them every step of the way. At the same time, they teach me just as much as I teach them.
How do you foster community in your own class?
Over the past year, I’ve built a community of regular attendees in my class, and they’ve truly become like family to me. My message when I teach is always rooted in gratitude, that we get the privilege to do this together, to move and to work out. I try to inspire everyone through teamwork, often incorporating group challenges into class. This helps foster a strong sense of community and keeps people excited to return week after week.
What else are you up to around campus?
Outside the classroom, I’ve worked in a lab doing Tuberculosis research, now I am doing my own research in HIV stigma and hope to carry that forward during my gap year. I also work as a phlebotomist since I am a premedical student seeking clinical experiences. I am in several clubs, most notably PESTL, Partners in East St. Louis, which is a club where we seek to support and raise awareness for people who live in East St. Louis. I have a great group of friends which definitely provide lots of support.