The transition from being an aspiring Olympian to a professional in the sports business world is a journey filled with ups and downs—we recently had the privilege of chatting with Pepper Kolman '18, an LAS alum and aspiring Olympic rower who is now carving her path in media relations.

Pepper’s journey began at Clemson University (USA) and continued at Rutgers University (USA) where she pursued undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in economics. The realization that sports extended beyond physical performance and into the business world is something that she has learned through her degree, particularly over the last 12 months. As an athlete, Pepper has experienced the intensity of a 24/7 commitment, but her background in economics has allowed her to see the range of opportunities within this multi-million dollar industry.

Pepper started in her athletic journey at LAS and but enjoyed competing in Division I sports in university. By the end of her university career, Pepper was close to reaching a national level. This led her to coastal rowing, a discipline that offered more flexibility compared to the full-time commitment required in crew rowing. With eight years of ocean racing and crew skills under her belt, coastal rowing seemed like the perfect fit.

The turning point in her journey happened during the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston. A friend she knew from a JL Racing campaign invited her to participate in a mixed doubles race in Los Angeles, California. What started as a bar bet quickly led to her registering a boat and forming a team! Her team, "Next Level Rowing," is a private club, with all their boats qualified to represent the USA.

Pepper’s time at LAS taught her the importance of a balanced life and the value of downtime. She contrasts the all-or-nothing approach in the United States with the more holistic perspective in Switzerland and Europe, where hobbies can be an important part of life without defining one's entire personality. 

Pepper credits the faculty's support at LAS with helping students realize their goals and advises taking challenges one day at a time, emphasizing the need for gradual progress. She also encourages students to embrace the range of opportunities they encounter, even if they feel outside their comfort zone. LAS, with its emphasis on exploring new ideas and student ambitions, helps students to discover their passions.

Her final words of wisdom are a reminder to be grateful for the opportunities presented and to take life one step at a time. She fondly recalls her experiences at LAS, where she engaged in cultural trips, skiing, and family events, all contributing to an incredible journey. Pepper’s journey shows her perseverance, adaptability, and determination, and her story is a source of inspiration for anyone seeking to explore the dynamic and varied world of sports!