An aspiring lawyer balancing legal training with an intensive karate schedule will represent England at the Karate World Championships this year.
University of Worcester Law student Paulina (Lina) Makazlieva will compete with the best competitors from around the world after being selected for the International Combat Organisation (ICO) tournament in France in October.
Alongside her studies, Lina undertakes legal training at SM Lawson Solicitors in Kidderminster while preparing to compete at international level.
She balances her academic and professional commitments with training at Young Gloves Karate Club and spending up to five days a week training or in the gym.
“It’s a very big achievement,” said Lina, who has just finished the first year of her studies. “I feel very proud. I’ve had to come a long way to be in this position, so it means a lot to me. I was glad that somebody saw the dedication in me and my hard work.”
She added: “I always have this mindset that I want to win, but I have already won by being in the running with other people at this competition. I know it’s going to be a life-changing experience and an opportunity to develop my karate in future.”
Lina said the discipline and focus required in martial arts have helped her both in competition and in her studies.
“I like that karate is disciplined and challenging and helps me stay focussed to improve myself,” she said. “I’m constantly pushing to be better. It’s both physical and mental. Having routine and staying dedicated helps me balance everything I’m doing.”
The 19-year-old, from Kidderminster, hopes to pursue a career in civil and corporate law after graduating, while continuing to compete for England on the international stage.
She credits much of her determination to advice from her late father, who died two years ago.
“He used to say to me everything happens for a reason and if I have started something I should go through with it and I shouldn’t stop and shouldn’t give up,” said the 19-year-old, from Kidderminster. “I follow this in karate and in my studies. If I want something, I’ll keep doing it no matter what it takes – he told me to do that. I know that my dad would be proud and my family are really happy too.”
Lina first took up karate as a hobby six years ago and started competing four years ago.
She said support from the University has played an important role in helping her pursue both her academic and sporting ambitions.
“My lecturers are very flexible and very supportive, because they know I put the work in,” she said. “They have especially helped me with balancing everything.”