Jade Rose '25 - Women's Soccer
Returning to GoCrimson.com for an eighth season, "Around The Yard: Life As A Harvard Student-Athlete" explores life away from the playing fields for select Harvard student-athletes through Q&A style entries.

Can you briefly introduce yourself?
My name is Jade Rose, I'm a first-year on the women's soccer team and currently living in Wigglesworth. I'm originally from Markham, Ontario, Canada which is a smaller city 30 minutes outside of Toronto. I have a younger brother and sister, ages 12 and 16 and a dog named Remy. I enjoy cooking, baking, listening to music and spending time with family and friends. I'm interested in studying psychology (however, that could change)
 
When did you first start seriously thinking about attending Harvard and what made it stand out from other schools when you we're making your decision?
I started thinking about Harvard seriously when I was approached by the coaching staff in 2018, I've always taken my academics and sport very seriously however I didn't think Harvard was ever achievable until having that conversation. Harvard stood out mainly because it's...Harvard, I think the reputation speaks for itself. Harvard is one of the most diverse schools I was considering and that aspect drew me in; Toronto is very diverse and I valued that part of home very much, and so the idea of finding another environment where I could benefit from similar things was comforting. Another factor that played into my decision was the balance of sports and academics, I found that at other universities the emphasis was either on one of the other, but never both.
 
What was it like leading up to and on move-in day?
Leading up to move-in day there were a lot of emotions, mostly excitement but also the thought of leaving home was tough. Being somewhat of an international is a bit daunting, especially because most of the transition you have to do alone.
 
Can you tell us about something that's been challenging in your first month here and how you've dealt with it?
The thing I've found most challenging has been the transition from an environment where the rules regarding COVID-19 were very strict to one where they aren't as much, especially with regards to in-person classes. My entire senior year (grade 12) was done asynchronously, we also didn't have exams, and so leaping to the opposite side of the spectrum in a very short time frame definitely posed challenges. I've dealt with it mostly by just taking one day at a time and not getting ahead of myself, as well as trying to go with the flow (as much as possible).
 
What's one of your best experiences so far?
My best experience has definitely been the moments I spent with my team. I believe our team to be such a special group of people, where we can be authentic and have fun, while pushing each other to be the best individuals whether that's on or off the pitch.
 
What's something that's surprised you or you didn't expect?
One thing that surprised me is how willing everyone at Harvard - whether that's faculty or students - is to help one another, and get to know people beyond the superficial.
 
What are you most looking forward to in your four years in Cambridge?
I am most looking forward to connecting with others and learning more about experiences from all over. As well as competing to win an Ivy League championship and going to the NCAA tournament.