Serena is on her way to the USA!
By: Communications
Serena Grace is an athletics sports scholar and a final year student on the BSc PE, Sport and Health (PESH) course who transferred to UEA in her second year. Having secured a full scholarship in the US, Serena Grace’s Olympic dreams inch ever closer.
What brought you to UEA?
I was originally studying Sports, Health and Exercise Sciences at Brunel University London as an Athletics scholar, but my Mum fell ill in my first year, and I wanted to be closer to home, so I applied to UEA and was offered a place on the UEA Sports Scholarship programme. I thought I would have to repeat the first year, but fortunately I didn’t need to!
Transferring to UEA was a real leap of faith. At Brunel I was training with elite athletes and didn't know how that would compare to UEA. However, it all ended up being a bit of a blessing in disguise. The course I’m on here is much more psychology-focused, which I love. Plus, I get so much support, my mental state has improved, and I’m running faster. I train alone a lot of the time, but I know my goals and crack on, even when it means running outside in the rain in the winter!
The Sport Scholarship programme at UEA is excellent. If I need extra support as an elite athlete, it’s always there. I have access to nutrition and psychology workshops, which weren’t available to me before. I have regular check-ins with my PESH course tutors and the UEA Sports Scholarship programme staff, who give me extra time for assignments if I need them, and if the track is closed, they support me in training elsewhere. The staff know me and what I need to get the best results.
Tell us about your sporting achievements
This year, I won Senior Track Athlete at the Norfolk Athletics awards, came 5th in the 60m final (indoors) and 4th in the 200m final (outdoors) at the British Universities and Colleges Sport Awards (BUCS). I was also semifinalist in the 60m and 200m UK British Athletics Championships. I’m in the top 10 in the UK for the under 23s in the indoor 100m and 200m. I’m also first in the East of England for 60m, 100m, 200m and 400m.
Study PE, Sport and Health at UEA
How do you spend your time when you’re not studying or training?
I don’t have a lot of spare time but when I do, I like to meet my mum and my friends for coffee. I spend a lot of time on my own, which can be a bit lonely, so it’s important that I take time to relax. I’ve made friends on my course and with other sports scholars.
I work on reception at the Sportspark, and also help out with their Holiday Clubs. I write fitness blogs and do some modelling for Mirafit too. Oh, and I also volunteer as a teaching assistant at West Earlham Junior School.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I study during the day and spend a lot of time in the library. Later, I head to the gym and train in the evenings. I make sure I take breaks and always try to keep on top of my uni work. I prioritise my health and wellbeing and have to stay focused and disciplined. Running is like having a job but it’s a job I enjoy, which makes it so much easier!
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m heading to America later this year to take up a full scholarship, to continue as a track athlete and will be starting an MA in Psychology. I’m really going to be stepping out of my comfort zone to improve as a runner, but I know it will be worth it!
Nothing for me is about instant gratification, that will all come later in life. My journey has had its ups and downs, but I continue to have faith that things will work out. I’ve achieved so much since I’ve been at UEA – I'm still here and I’m running fast!
My goal is to represent Great Britain in the European Athletics Indoor Championships in Norway next year.
What advice would you give anyone thinking of coming to UEA?
In terms of study, go with your passion. You’re going to be really busy, so make the most of all the experiences that come your way and try not to compare yourself to others.
If you join the PESH course, you’re going to get all the support you need. You’ll be made to feel so welcome and you’re going to have a really good time!