About Jess:

What course are you studying and what level?

DPhil Music

Why did you chose that course?

My research allows me to take an in-depth view of one topic, whilst weaving in scholarship from several other fields

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

I started coxing in 2021 after one of my flatmates spent lockdown showing me videos of bumps races and ejector crab compilations.

I feel like the sport rewards intense focus and there’s always something new to learn about the stroke. The teammates are pretty class as well.

What was your first rowing club and coach?

Worcester College Boat Club, Oxford. Max Lau.

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

I was not a very sporty child

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

Seen far too many sunrises, met a lot of great people. Wouldn’t change it for anything

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

I’d probably go back to video gaming

What is your favourite non-academic book?

Couldn’t pick just one book as a definitive answer – for now, it’s Audrey Magee’s The Colony

Find out more about Jess from:

• Instagram