About Sierra:

What course are you studying and what level?

DPhil in Engineering Science

Why did you chose that course?

I chose to specialize in biomedical engineering, because I get to work with an interdisciplinary team to solve real world problems. I get to combine my engineering background with my interest in medicine and health, and it’s exciting getting to do something new every day to have the potential to positively impact people’s lives.

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

When I started at Oxford, I heard that rowing was a big part of the culture, and so I wanted to try it out. I went to an introductory taster session and BBQ in fresher’s week with my college’s boat club, and after my first session on the water I was hooked! I love how there are so many moving parts to the sport, and I enjoy learning about the science behind what makes boats go fast. On the outside it seems like a simple and repetitive sport, but there are so many complexities that mean that there are always ways to improve and gain advantages. The cohesion required in a boat with other teammates is unlike any other sport I’ve experienced!

What was your first rowing club and coach?

Piotr Golawski at Keble College Boat Club

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

Michael Phelps

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

Since coming to Oxford, I’ve always admired the athletes who compete in The Boat Race, and now being on a team with such amazing athletes has been inspiring – the positive energy and commitment from the team keeps me going. It has been a highlight of both my university and athletic careers being able to compete with Oxford, and I’ve been able to push my mental and physical boundaries through the sport of rowing like I’d never thought possible.

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

Swimming and Baseball

What is your favourite non-academic book?

Carrie Soto Is Back, by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Find out more about Sierra from:

• Instagram