Simone Biles, the gymnastics legend once graced the academic halls of the renowned UCLA. However, as Biles’ star continued to ascend, the pressure mounted. She faced a pivotal crossroads?should she continue down the path of collegiate gymnastics or embrace the allure of professional gymnastics? ?Biles ultimately chose the path of professional gymnastics, forsaking her UCLA education. In pursuit of her dream, she adopted an online college experience through the University of the People (UoPeople).

This offered her the flexibility she needed to nurture her blossoming career while continuing her education. Her choice marked a turning point, one that propelled her to unprecedented heights in the gymnastics world and beyond. Her path reverberates in the world of gymnastics, and now another rising star at UCLA, Emma Malabuyo, finds herself contemplating a similar decision.

Like Simone Biles, Emma Malabuyo is on the threshold of a decision

Emma Malabuyo, a Filipino-American artistic gymnast, is currently studying at UCLA while representing the Philippines in international competitions. Just like an encounter Biles previously faced, Malabuyo stands at a crossroads, torn between the worlds of NCAA gymnastics and elite gymnastics. Malabuyo’s recent success in elite gymnastics has added complexity to her decision-making process. According to Gymnastics Now, in her own words, “I?m still in the process of deciding what I want to do.”

She continued, “I haven?t made any decisions yet, but it?s a lot, so I know that I have this goal in mind, but now I?m actually just having so many conversations and just thinking of what I really want to do?either stay at UCLA, or I don?t know what the other option is”. Her newfound passion for elite gymnastics and dreams of competing in the Olympics have rekindled a fire within her. Emma Malabuyo’s return to the elite gymnastics scene was nothing short of spectacular.

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Malabuyo’s remarkable journey

Despite only having a month to train for the 2023 Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships, she achieved remarkable results. She earned the silver medal on the floor and placed fifth on the beam, marking a historic achievement as the highest-placing Filipina gymnast at the Asian Championships.

As Malabuyo continues her journey, she holds steadfast to her aspirations, including the dream of representing the Philippines at the Olympics. For her, it’s not just about participating in the games; it’s about doing so while proudly carrying her nation’s flag. Her newfound commitment to her homeland and the love and support she’s received have further fueled her desire to compete.

Malabuyo’s journey, like Biles’, exemplifies the evolving landscape of gymnastics. The once-distinct boundaries between NCAA and elite gymnastics have blurred. Younger gymnasts now see that they can pursue both worlds simultaneously and even extend their careers beyond college.

Years after Biles made her life-changing decision to leave UCLA and pursue professional gymnastics, Malabuyo also finds herself in a similar situation with confusion. Their journeys, while unique, share a common thread of passion, ambition, and sacrifice.

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