Collegiate Skaters Reflect on the Power of Skating
As we delve into the world of collegiate figure skating, it becomes clear that the sport offers much more than just competition. It fosters a thriving community, builds astounding confidence, and teaches essential life skills that athletes carry with them long after they’ve traded their skates for other pursuits. Recent reflections from current and former collegiate figure skaters highlight these invaluable lessons, showcasing how their skating experiences shape their professional and personal lives.
Scott Brody, a University of Michigan skater from the Class of 2016, emphasizes the importance of work ethic. “In life sciences consulting, facing complex problems is a regular occurrence,” Brody shares. “I tackle challenges just as I did on the ice—with determination and grit.”
Meanwhile, Sherry Chen, a senior at Barnard College, notes that collegiate skating reshaped her perspective. “Skating taught me humility and resilience,” she explains. “I’d previously focused on perfection but now aim to be the best version of myself instead of seeking a top-ranking position.
Ting Cui, a senior at Middlebury College, highlights the significance of time management. “Balancing figure skating with my studies has prepared me for what lies ahead,” she states, showcasing how this balance can bear fruit in both academics and beyond.
For Joon Soo Kim, a UCLA skater (Class of 2021), every performance setback in figure skating paralleled lessons in the medical field—perseverance through highs and lows. “Every challenge allowed me to grow as an athlete,” Kim recalls, empowering graduates with relatable wisdom applicable in any career.
Ashley Korn, the ice chair of the Collegiate Synchronized Skating Subcommittee, shares her mission of fostering growth over perfection among her athletes. “My goal is to empower my skaters to recognize their potential and rise through challenges,” she states. “It’s about creating a positive and supportive environment.”
Lastly, Kelvin Li from Berkeley underscores the importance of resilience. “Every fall in skating translates to rising stronger understanding in academia,” he notes, reinforcing the powerful partnership between sports and education.
As these athletes share their journeys, it’s evident that collegiate figure skating serves as a robust foundation for personal and professional growth, crafting a culture that emphasizes resilience, teamwork, and unyielding support.
