Thunderbird at ASU student thrives while balancing academics and athletics

Balancing school with the demands of a competitive sport takes discipline, time management, and an incredible amount of responsibility that goes beyond the typical student.

For Riko Takayoshi, a student at Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, she couldn’t imagine her college career any other way.

As a co-captain of ASU’s women’s rugby team, Takayoshi has maintained a 4.0 GPA in the Bachelor of Global Management degree program—a true testament to her ability to channel energy into growth on and off the field.

“Rugby is more than just a sport to me,” she said. “It’s my outlet—my way to reset, recharge, and refocus. Instead of pulling me away from academics, it sharpens my focus. I’ve learned to treat rugby not as a distraction, but as fuel for everything else I do.”

Takayoshi credits daily organization and prioritization to her success, enabling her to fully commit to both studies and her team.

“In the end, it’s not about finding time for everything but making time for what truly drives me,” she added.

Her dual identity as both a scholar and an athlete has shaped her Thunderbird journey in unique ways. The teamwork, time management, and mental toughness required to excel in both arenas have helped shape her leadership abilities.

The path to Thunderbird was also shaped by something deeper: family legacy. Her father earned his MBA from Thunderbird years ago, and the experience transformed his career—and his character. “I saw the leader he became, how he connected with people from all walks of life,” she says. “I wanted to grow in the same way—not just as a professional, but as a person. Thunderbird has absolutely delivered that.”

Question: What are your career aspirations, and how do you envision using your education and experiences at Thunderbird to make a meaningful impact in your community or industry?

Answer: “Borders frequented by trade seldom need soldiers.” This Thunderbird motto has inspired me to pursue a career in international sports management, using sports as a force for unity, inclusivity, and global collaboration. My experiences at Thunderbird and as co-captain of the rugby team have strengthened my leadership, adaptability, and teamwork. I aim to use my education and leadership experience to create meaningful change in the world of sports, breaking down barriers and promoting peace through athletic engagement.

Q: Who or what inspires you to strive for excellence, and how do you stay motivated through challenges?

A: Every morning, I read a phrase displayed in my room: “I want to show gratitude to my parents by becoming an impactful global leader who makes the world better, so they see the effort and time they put into me means a lot.” This is my “why,” the driving force behind everything I do. When faced with challenges, I remind myself of this purpose. I stay focused by remembering that every action I make will build my future.

Q: What advice would you give to other students aiming to excel academically while actively pursuing their passions outside the classroom?

A: My advice to students striving for academic excellence while pursuing their passions is simple: do what makes you happy. No matter how passionate you are about your studies, college can be overwhelming at times. That’s why it’s important to engage in activities outside the classroom that genuinely make you happy. 

Your extracurricular pursuits shouldn’t feel like another obligation, instead they should recharge you. Whether it’s sports, music, art, or any other passion, I encourage you to choose something that energizes rather than drains you. When you find that balance, your academics and personal growth will thrive together, making the journey more fulfilling.