Survive her first week at an Ivy League? 2018 Olympian Karen Chen can check that off her to-do list. Chen says, "I've been incredibly busy, but I absolutely love it here."
As a freshman studying human development at Cornell, Chen will take a full course load in the fall semester. Her five classes include: psychology of gender, infancy and childhood, adulthood and aging, biology, and freshman writing seminar.
Chen says, "Sticky notes and my planner app on my phone have definitely helped keep me organized."
Chen's new skating schedule will mirror her Colorado Springs schedule and she will remain training six days a week. "I have been going to a rink about 15 minutes from campus, which has been easy," explains Chen.
Her coach, Tammy Gambill continues to reside in Colorado Springs, which will present new challenges for the duo. Chen acknowledges, "We are still finalizing a schedule to get FaceTime set up during my training sessions."
Chen's main focus right now is to be able to maintain the hard work she put in this summer. "I knew training while in school would be difficult, so I worked hard to get in the best shape possible over the summer and come to school strong," said Chen. She adds, "My goal is to deliver solid programs because I know I'm capable of that."
For the 2019-20 season, she is most excited for her short program to "You Say" by Lauren Diagle. Chen notes, "This program is very special to me and different than anything I've ever done."
Looking ahead, Chen competes for the first time since 2018 this weekend in Ontario at the Autumn Classic International, which is part of the ISU Challenger Series. Last season, the 20-year-old had to take the year to recover from a foot injury. She also looks forward to competing at Skate America in October in Las Vegas and NHK Trophy in October in Japan. "The crowd in Japan is always amazing," she notes.
Tune in to watch Chen's free skate Friday, Sept. 13!
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