Welcome to the latest edition of our Scholars Q&A! In this weekly feature, we speak to a selection of our Team Surrey scholars to hear about their experiences and achievements within university sport and beyond.
Tegan Drew from University of Surrey Swimming has been back in the pool over the last couple of months after some time away during lockdown. Tegan is the latest scholar to take on the Q&A as she tells us about the origins of her swimming career, her experience on the scholarship programme and her aims for the future.
How have things been going with you recently?
“We have currently been back in the SSP pool and gym for 6 weeks after having been in the lido for 9 weeks. It has been really nice to get back into training properly and we have some competitions such as Level X, Surrey County finals and Regionals coming up over the next couple of months which is really exciting.”
When and where did your Swimming career begin?
“My swimming career began at age 7 at Hillingdon Swimming Club before moving to Plymouth Leander at age 10 when my career really kicked off, getting a British Record at age 11.”
What are your aims in sport moving forward?
“My aims moving forward are essentially just to do the best I possibly can in the sport. If that means competing for GB then that would be amazing, but if not I just want to look back and know I gave it all I could.”
How has the university supported you and your sporting endeavours?
“The University has been great in supporting me, through the scholarship programme and TASS as well. Whether it’s financial, nutritional, psychological, physical or lifestyle support required, there is always someone to reach out to who is willing to help.”
What would you say to prospective students considering Surrey?
“I would say to prospective students considering Surrey to absolutely go for it, I am very happy with the decision I made, even given the situation over the past year, and I’m sure they wouldn’t regret it either.”
What has been the highlight of your time at Surrey?
“My highlight at Surrey so far was swimming at short course BUCS as everyone came together as a team which is always great as swimming is often a very individual sport.”
Quick-fire Questions
Sporting role model? “Tom Daley.”
Favourite meal? “A roast dinner.”
Favourite lockdown workout? “Circuit training with my Dad.”
Favourite song for exercising/training? “For Reasons Unknown – The Killers.”
Best thing about Surrey? “The fantastic facilities and my friends.“