California dreamin’!
Talented teenage rower Megan awarded £65k scholarship at leading American university
WORLD champion rower Megan Knight has landed a place at a top US university after being talent-spotted by a coach.
The 17-year-old, who is currently studying for A-levels at Stoke-ontrent Sixth Form College, has secured an $87,000 (£65,460) scholarship to go to Stanford University in California.
The unconditional offer means she will be combining her degree work with her sporting commitments once she starts there in September.
Megan, from Trentham, said: “I am excited about going to one of the top universities in the world, but also a little bit nervous. It’s a long way to go on my own.
“One of the head coaches of Stanford University reached out to me after competing in the World Rowing Championships.
“He sent me a message through Instagram to congratulate me and asked if I would be interested in a scholarship with them.
“I am looking forward to representing the university as a member of the rowing team. I would like to row competitively for as long as I can and become a full-time athlete once I have finished university.” Megan currently trains with Trentham Boat Club and has set her sights on a place in the GB Olympics team eventually.
The teenager achieved gold at the World Virtual Indoor Rowing Championships back in February. She recently qualified for the under-19s trials for next year’s championships. It has involved at least 20 hours of training a week – a similar amount to what she will be expected to do in California.
But she has still found time to focus on her A-levels in biology, maths, further maths and PE.
Megan is part of her college’s high achievers’ programme, which provides students with mentoring, guidance and support from professionals to help navigate university admissions.
She has also been on a junior elite scholarship in partnership with Staffordshire University, which is aimed at nurturing young people’s athletic talents so they can compete at county level and above.
Assistant principal Phil Mcpherson said: “Everyone at the sixth form college is incredibly proud of Megan’s rowing performances, including winning a gold and silver medal at world level rowing.
“The award of this scholarship at Stanford University reflects her hard work, dedication and positive attitude to both her training at Trentham Boat Club and her academic studies.”
Megan will be visiting California with her family in the New Year to see the university campus.
She is already part of a Whatsapp group for students who have received an offer and will be part of the women’s rowing team.
The course at Stanford lasts for four years, with the final two years spent specialising in one area. She is still undecided about what she would like to do as her major, but is considering maths and engineering as an option.
Ed Swann, director of teaching and learning at the college, has seen Megan excel through the high achievers’ programme.
He said: “Her amazing academic achievements and success at the World Indoor Rowing Championships have gained her the opportunity of a lifetime. We wish Megan the best of luck.”