My name is Georgia, and I’m a 3rd year anatomy student from a town just outside of Newcastle. Initially I came to Dundee as it was the only university in the UK where I could study Forensic Anthropology, the course I initially applied for, because the subject fascinated me. As I’ve gone through the course, this year in particular, my interest has shifted, and I’m switching degree streams to anatomy for 4th year. I’m also heavily involved in the AHID (anatomy and human identification) society, my biggest role being planning the ball we held this semester (several members of DUBC enjoyed the festivities at that one, we really do love a ceilidh).
I’m new to rowing this year, learning here at DUBC. I wanted to join after hearing all about it from my flatmate, who joined in first year. I really wanted to work on my fitness, and also try and give myself a more structured schedule, after the lack of one last year due to covid. The training schedule for rowing has definitely helped me do both of those things already. I also heard amazing things about the social side of the club, and it was a great opportunity to meet new people.
My proudest moment in the club so far would probably be Inverness in first semester. Despite our four being the slowest in our category, we completed the course in around 22 minutes, which I was incredibly proud of, as we managed to achieve this despite having no steering in the boat. The fact we had that extra barrier to overcome, and still managed to complete the course in that time is definitely a big moment of pride for me.
A major highlight of training has to be the water sessions. I know, everyone says this, but it genuinely is the best part. The days when the water is still, the views are incredible, and sometimes there’s even some cool wildlife to be seen – the seal is definitely the most interesting one, though the swans are pretty too. Afternoon sessions, where the sun starts to set while you’re heading back into land are genuinely stunning.
Outside of training, my degree keeps me pretty busy, but I always try and find the time to read. Whether it be high fantasy, sci-fi or the occasional trashy romance, I like to make sure I get my reading time in. Currently I have the potentially over ambitious goal of reading sixty books this year (I’m only 10% of the way through that so far, and its already March). I also definitely watch too much TV, particularly of the medical/emergency responder drama genre – yes, I have watched the whole of Grey’s Anatomy more than once.
When I’m at home, I spend most of my time in the pub. I know that initially sounds terrible, but in reality, it’s because my grandma runs one. I work in it, with my mum, sister, and even sometimes my dad. I love being behind the bar, I feel the most at home there, and I have been told I pour a pretty good pint. Honestly, if I was asked if I have any special skills, the fact I can draw a perfect shamrock on a pint of Guinness would absolutely be near the top of that list.
DUBC has such a massive sense of community, and that is what makes it more than just a rowing club. I have made so many incredible friends this year, who make the idea of getting up at 6am to train just that little bit more bearable. Cheesy as it sounds, we’re a family at DUBC, and there’s just something about the people in this club that made me realise I joined for the sport, but I’ve stuck at it for the friends I’ve made, and there is no way I'll be leaving any time soon.