“Your ambition should be to get as much life out of living as you possibly can, as much enjoyment as much interest, as much experience, as much understanding. And not to simply be what is generally called a success.”

                                                                       Eleanor Roosevelt

The life that 21-year-old YouTuber Abby Asselin leads is a shining example of her favorite quote. In other words, she wears a lot of hats, yet doesn’t do anything she isn’t genuinely passionate about. It was during her freshman year at the University of Alabama that Abby posted her very first YouTube video, using the platform to express herself creatively and help other college students. It was love at first post.

Almost three short years later, Abby’s productivity-based vlogs have amassed over 10 million views and 86,000 subscribers. She has also partnered with big brands like Aussie, Lululemon and Princess Polly. The growth is well-deserved, as Abby’s videos have served as motivation for students and people in general to live well-balanced lives amidst the inevitable stress of what is known today as the hustle culture. Not only is she an avid content creator, but she is also a hardworking Accounting & Finance major, teaching assistant, fitness queen, dog mom to a yorkie named Ella, and host of the Gen Z Girl podcast. 

Abby shed some light on her life as an influencer and college student:

What helped you decide on the vibe/message you wanted to send out through your YouTube videos without being like every other YouTuber?

I had an atypical college experience, observing everyone around me. I had gone through so many different highs and lows and all those things made me want to share with other people that having an imperfect life is okay. I hope to inspire other people to embrace everyday life.

How do you keep the creative juices flowing when school, stress, and life in general tend to take over? 

A lot of the creativity comes in when I’m editing. For example, when I add quotes in my videos. I don’t know what I’d do without this creative outlet. As an Accounting and Finance major, it’s so analytical that when I get to do this, it’s truly a chance to express myself creatively.

What motivates you to kill it in school, fitness, YouTube, and the Gen Z Girl podcast?

I’ve always had a pretty good head on my shoulders, a lot of discipline from a young age. I think everyone has a purpose outside of their everyday life that they have to find; once you find that purpose, it kind of drives your motivation. It drives new opportunities. That desire to help people, whether that be through YouTube or my podcast, keeps me going. With fitness and eating healthy, feeling my best keeps me doing my best in all areas.

How do you normally handle criticism?

It’s hard, but I calm down and decide if I want to give that negative energy the time of day. I try and force myself to remember that what they say is a reflection of that person and not me.

You've talked about your first year at Alabama and how it was a rough one. What would you say to someone who is going through a season of uncertainty and loneliness in college?

I don’t think that running away from your problems is always the answer. I think you need to give yourself a chance. For people like me, who didn’t rush at a big southern school, you definitely have to put yourself out there and get out of your comfort zone. You can’t just sit in your room and expect people to show up. You kind of have to push yourself to get out there. It’s also important to ask yourself if you’re actually trying to make things better or just running away from your problems. 

What do you do to unwind?

I play with my dog, watch YouTube videos, light some candles, and get into comfy clothes, even if it’s just for an hour. Working out also helps me de-stress.

Tips on balancing friendships/relationships/school/having fun in college? It's easy to focus so much on one area of our lives and neglect the others.

One thing is that I do not have it all together, despite what people may think. I limit myself to putting only 5-7 things on my planner a day instead of 20, and then really give my all to those things. Try to not neglect one area of your life for another and learn to prioritize. It’s all about balance.  

Special thanks to Abby for taking the time for this interview. Follow her on Insta @abby.asselin & check out her YouTube channel and the Gen Z Girl podcast for motivating, uplifting, and relatable content!

Article by Emma Garza