Amelia Mills
Squads
About Amelia :
What course are you studying and what level?
MSc in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management.
Why did you chose that course?
I am passionate about biological and conservation research. I felt that this course would allow me to explore biological systems further, while also providing me with the foundation to look at complex conservation issues through the various lenses of economic development, law, policy, and biology.
When, where and why did you start rowing? And what do you love about the sport?
I began rowing in 2016 at the age of 15. I was motivated by stubbornness (my rower parents had warned me that rowing was a tough sport) and inspired by my parent’s rowing careers. I love rowing because it makes me feel strong and capable, and there’s always something to fiddle with technically – I can push myself physically and mentally.
What was your first rowing club and coach?
Wemmer Pan Rowing Club. Xavier Mateman.
What or who was the earliest sporting inspiration you remember as a child?
My mother. She competed as a lightweight sculler for South Africa in the ’90s.
How has rowing and being part of the Boat Race squad impacted your life?
Besides waking me up very early, rowing has given me a community of friends who are as busy as I am and a sense of purpose beyond my academics.
If you weren’t a rower, what sport do you think you’d excel at?
Cycling.
What is your favourite non-academic book?
I love anything in the realm of historical fiction, sci-fi and fantasy.
