Check out our interview with Sabrina LoRusso, whose dynamic roles at Clemson University extend far beyond the classroom. Not only is Sabrina an enthusiastic cheerleader, cheering on the Tigers with spirit and dedication, but she’s also an influencer and a visionary changemaker, co-founding the Olivia Hope Foundation.
Follow Sabrina @sabrinaalorusso
Hi Sabrina, please tell us a little about yourself.
Hi! My name is Sabrina LoRusso; I am from Long Island, New York. I’m pursuing a Health Science degree in my first year at Clemson University. Alongside my academic journey, I proudly serve as a co-founder of the Olivia Hope Foundation (OHF). Additionally, I’m passionate about my roles as both an influencer and an athlete.
Describe yourself in three words.
Bubbly, ambitious, and compassionate.
Can you share a bit about your journey at Clemson University? How has your academic experience influenced your personal and professional ambitions?
My time at Clemson University has been both challenging and rewarding. Adjusting to college life as a first-year student was exciting yet nerve-wracking. Joining the club cheer team became a defining moment, providing a supportive community and helping me grow as an athlete and individual. My teammates are like family, and we’re eagerly preparing to compete in Daytona Beach for UCA college nationals. While initially undecided about my career path, my passion for medicine led me to pursue health science with double minors in Spanish and psychology. Though I initially encountered a setback with the nursing program when Clemson only accepted second-year students to transfer into the program this year, this redirection ultimately led me to discover my current academic path.
What does a typical day in your life look like, both on and off social media?
Oh gosh, that’s a loaded question. The first thing I do, as anyone who knows me will know, is I go to Starbucks and get a coffee… every morning. After that, I usually have a day full of classes and some OHF and personal social media work. I am also a part-time tutor (in between my classes). On Sunday through Thursday, I have cheer practice at night, whether it be team practice or tumbling classes. On social media, my days look like they consist of opening PR and cheerleading… which isn’t entirely true, although I wish it were!
Now tell us about your nonprofit the Olivia Hope Foundation?
Sure! I am a co-founder of the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Olivia Hope Foundation (OHF), created in honor of my twin sister Olivia, who passed from Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2017. I do a lot of behind-the-scenes work; my primary role is PR outreach and social media management for our Instagram page.
What inspired you to start your nonprofit organization, and what mission does it serve?
It was Olivia’s vision and hope that someday, children afflicted with AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia) and other childhood cancers would not have to suffer the way she did. Our mission is to fund research aimed at discovering targeted therapies that have less caustic effects on children and to improve the quality of life for all children and families suffering from childhood cancer.
Balancing cheerleading, academics, a role as an influencer, and running a nonprofit must be challenging. How do you manage your time effectively across these commitments?
Challenging is an understatement! It is hard, but I use Google Calendar constantly to color code my schedule and set up reminders for specific things! Also, I prioritize my tasks on sticky notes and put them on my computer so I know what’s most important for that day to accomplish. Successfully navigating these responsibilities in cheerleading, academics, social media, and the OHF has made me more resilient, adaptable, and confident.
Can you share a memorable moment or success story from your nonprofit work that has deeply impacted you or the community you serve?
One highlight of our annual galas is the paddle raise, where we aim to raise critical funds quickly. One significant achievement that sticks out to me is when we successfully raised $100,000 in just 10 minutes during our paddle raise in 2021. This achievement speaks to our collective ability to inspire generosity and make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
What have been the biggest challenges and rewards in juggling your roles as a student, athlete, influencer, and founder of a nonprofit?
Balancing my roles as a student, athlete, influencer, and non-profit founder comes with challenges and rewards and is more complex than it seems. Managing my time effectively requires careful planning and organization. I’ve found that hard work pays off, whether reflected in my academic achievements, learning new cheerleading skills, or the impact of the OHF’s initiatives. Witnessing the positive outcomes of our foundation’s work is a powerful reminder of the value of dedication. Similarly, in cheerleading, hours of practice result in mastering new skills and executing challenging stunts. There are reminders of hard work paying off that I see and use as motivation to continue pushing forward academically, athletically, as an influencer and philanthropically.
What advice would you give to other college students who want to make a positive impact on society but might not know where to start?
Find something you are passionate about, know your strengths and weaknesses and collaborate with others who share your passion!
How would your best friend describe you?
“I would describe my Sabrina as a smart, dedicated, hardworking and loving girl. She always goes out of her way to be kind to others, big or small. She will always be the first to show up to practice and the last to leave, and she is truly the most hardworking girl I know. Never a dull moment with my Sabrina. She’s the best” – Emma Klein.
“She has the biggest heart and makes everyone’s day brighter when you’re in it—the funniest and kindest soul”- Izzy Gambino.
Safe to say- I have the bestest friends!
How would you explain your fashion style and what items in your closet can you not be without?
Occasionally, I dress cute, and on most days, I wear pajamas or sweatpants to class. I would describe my fashion style as nonexistent; I usually wear what I want without considering it. Sometimes, my sister sees me before I walk out the door and tells me that nothing I am wearing matches, and then she styles me. I cannot be without my workout clothes, running shoes, Ugg slippers, and favorite hoodies (I could be slightly biased, but I love the OHF ones we launch soon).
What is your favorite healthy food?
Do pickles count?
And your favorite cheat food?
I can never turn down some coffee-flavored ice cream or sour candy.
Something people don’t know about you?
I love going on long runs near the water!
Looking forward, what are some goals or projects you are excited about in the near future?
I am looking forward to seeing where my cheerleading career will bring me in the near future! Also, I am looking forward to a few fun Instagram and TikTok projects and partnerships in the works! Lastly, I am SO excited for the Olivia Hope Foundation Annual Gala on May 10th. Planning our annual gala is like planning a wedding, and it is such a fun project!
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Any Morgan Wallen or Zach Bryan song.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think it can be challenging to navigate and easy to fall into traps of comparison, but I also think it is a great tool to inspire, learn and connect with others. It all depends on who you follow and what you choose to look at.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram @sabrinaalorusso and stay updated with the Olivia Hope Foundation through Instagram and Facebook @oliviahopefoundation.
Book: Mind Gym by Gary Mack
Quote: Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
Movie: The Great Gatsby