Student Excels While Competing for Team USA in Taekwondo

Kasia Hanulewicz is pursuing the 3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy program while competing internationally

Key Highlights

• Kasia Hanulewicz ’29 balances rigorous academics with elite-level international competition in taekwondo
• First-year biology major enrolled in Sacred Heart University’s 3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy program
• Gold medalist in sparring and combat sparring at the 2023 Pan American Championships
• Committed to continuing high-level competition while excelling academically, guided by perseverance, positivity and gratitude for her SHU experience

Kasia Hanulewicz ’29 arrived at Sacred Heart University this fall already familiar with the importance of hard work, balance and perseverance. The first-year student from Monmouth County, NJ, is a biology major enrolled in SHU’s 3+3 Doctor of Physical Therapy program. At the same time, she is a world-class taekwondo athlete, competing internationally for Team USA.

Hanulewicz began practicing taekwondo at age four. By 14, she earned a spot on Team USA, and at 18, she advanced to the Team USA Elite roster. Throughout her competitive career, she has earned six world titles with her teammates and holds the 2022 World Championship title in combat sparring. Most recently, she represented the United States at the Pan American Championships in September, where she placed first in sparring and combat sparring.

Despite the intensity of her training and travel schedule, Hanulewicz said her transition to college has been smooth and fulfilling. She has become active in SHU’s liturgical ministry, campus ministry and the biology club, all of which have helped her build community on campus.

“I’ve already made so many new friends here, and I love being part of groups that strengthen both my academic and spiritual life,” she said.

Sacred Heart’s physical therapy dual degree program was a major factor in her college decision. “The PT program here is incredible,” Hanulewicz said. “I want to become a physical therapist who can help athletes the same way I’ve been helped throughout my career.”

Balancing a demanding academic load with international athletic competition might seem daunting, but Hanulewicz said her professors have played a crucial role in supporting her. “I’m really on top of my work, but my professors have truly made it possible for me to continue competing,” she said. “They’ve been absolute godsends. I wouldn’t be able to do this without them.”

As she looks toward the future, Hanulewicz hopes to continue competing and training at the highest level while continuing her studies. “Whether I’m in the classroom or in competition, I try to show up with commitment and positivity,” Hanulewicz said. “I’m really grateful to be at SHU, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”