By Genre McAtee '16

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Although Laura Thompson (LT) participates in an overload of activities, she's always there to set a good example as an upperclassman on the Santa Clara women's rowing team. Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) wishes Thompson luck as she balances her time on the water and in the classroom.

SCB: You're a woman of eclectic tastes, dabbling in theatre, taking gender studies classes, and majoring in mathematics. What are some of your other interests, besides rowing?

LT: I love running even though I'm slower than a turtle stampeding through peanut butter. I read every chance I get. Also I love animals. At home I have five dogs and six horses.

SCB: Do you feel like you've been able to make the most out of your time here on the Mission campus?

LT: No, because four years just is not enough time to accomplish everything! 

SCB: What does your ideal junior year look like?

LT: My ideal senior year would be a year where I get to sleep for eight hours everyday, but that probably won't happen. Also, in my senior year I would love to complete a Spanish minor and be a part of the fastest Varsity 8 in our school's history. 

SCB: How will being an upperclassman on the team affect this rowing season?

LT: I have a lot more responsibility this year on the team. We have had 22 new people join. The new energy is exciting. I'm looking forward to helping the new girls and setting a good example of the Santa Clara University women's rowing work ethic and commitment. 

SCB: What do you hope to accomplish this season?

LT: This year we are hoping to succeed on the water and in the classroom. The team is looking at having a very strong Varsity 8 for the racing season. We have also made a commitment as a team to strive for a 3.0 GPA.