Kara Kivenas '20 Recruiting Profile

Two and a half years ago, I was introduced to the sport of rowing. Two and a half years ago, I found my passion...coxing!

Growing up in an athletic household, I was always drawn to sports. Basketball, softball,  and swimming were my chosen sports. However,  because I was born with a connective tissue disorder known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, my days of contact and physically strenuous sports came to an end. Although it was difficult for me to understand my limitations, it offered me an opportunity to find the sport and position that I was born to do....coxswain! 

Some of my proud accomplishments and experiences over the past two and a half years are Nationals coxing a senior boat (as a Freshman), Sparks coxswain camp, and captain of my crew team (as a Junior). Although I've had these opportunities, I understand that I have a lot more to learn! I am a true student of coxing always trying to improve my position, boat, and team!

I firmly believe that I have character traits that set me apart from others simply from the challenges I have faced.  My mother passed away when I was 4 days old from the disorder that I have, and I was removed from my biological father at the age of 3 years. I have lived with my aunt and uncle and two brother/cousins ever since!  This situation, along with the physical restrictions, has given me amazing gifts: drive, ambition, perseverance, leadership, and passion.  All of which I bring to the sport that I have come to love!  These same traits drive my academics and I currently have a 4.07 GPA and am a member of The National Honors Society. 

My Uncle and Aunt (guardians) are both in the medical field and I aspire to do the same. I am interested in the Health Sciences, so after my years of eligibility, I can complete whatever degree I ultimately decide. This allows me to currently continue my passion in the boat at the collegiate level for my entire undergraduate years! 

There is nothing more that I want than to take crew to the next level! Please reach out with any questions!

Sincerely, 

Kara Kivenas