About Paolo:

What course are you studying and what level?

MChem

Why did you chose that course?

Chemistry is the science of everything around you, including you. I just love the granular level of understanding it gives you of the world, from antibiotic resistance to colours and global warming

When, where and why did you start rowing? And what do you love about the sport?

At college. I love the precision and the collective work towards perfection, while also having the opportunity to blow my doors off.

What was your first rowing club and coach?

University college boat club, Jono Cheesman

What or who was the earliest sporting inspiration you remember as a child?

My mum (a top Italian epee-ist) and gran (an international swimmer)

How has rowing and being part of the Boat Race squad impacted your life?

I’ve loved college rowing, my team became my best friends and the schedule kept me honest during a busy degree. The step up to the Blues has just been a levelling up on every front.

If you weren’t a rower, what sport do you think you’d excel at?

Sumo

What is your favourite non-academic book?

Ender’s Game