Back to previous pageUC graduate scores AIS job
UC graduate scores AIS job
Amanda Powell
7 April 2011: Courtney McGowan has turned her passion for sport into a career.
The 22-year-old from Brisbane graduated with a Bachelor of Sport Studies (Honours) and is working at the Australian Institute of Sport as a post graduate scholar in the physiology department.
“I have always loved sport and I believe it can be a great leveler. It doesn’t matter how big or how fast you are, there is always something out there for you.”
“Watching the best players in the world is exhilarating and I have always wanted to know what makes them tick and how we as scientists can help them to reach their goals. To have the chance to work with these athletes who are so passionate about what they do is a privilege,” she said.
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Courtney McGowan at her graduation ceremony at Parliament House. |
She says she learnt a lot while completing her honours degree project.
“I chose swimming which is interesting, because it is one of the few sports in which the majority of factors are controlled, such as set temperatures and suit regulations.”
“It is fascinating to watch people such as Ian Thorpe and Michael Phelps being such dominant forces in such a highly competitive, controlled sport.”
“To a swimmer, a one per cent improvement can be everything. It can be the difference between gold and silver, between making the team and being left at home.”
Ms McGowan says it’s been a challenge balancing study and training.
She plays for the Canberra Strikers in the Australian Hockey League and is a member of the Canberra Cycling Club.
“It means so much to me to graduate. I thoroughly enjoyed completing my honours degree, even though at times it was challenging, the experience strengthens you and helps prepare you for life in the real world.”
“Most people say they feel relieved, but I think content is a better word for it. Finally all your hard work has paid off and you can move onto the next chapter of your life, whatever it may be.”
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