Alice Taylor grew up in Cambridge, New Zealand, loving sport and throwing herself into every opportunity she could. But unlike many athletes who pursue American scholarships, she never believed the pathway was meant for her.

After finishing school, Alice enrolled at Massey University with her sights set firmly on veterinary science. When that plan didn't work out, she found herself back home, working in a café, continuing to train, and trying to figure out what came next. What she didn't realise was that a conversation, a little persistence, and one email would soon open a door she never thought possible.

Today, Alice is a full-scholarship student-athlete at Rice University in Houston, Texas. She has competed at NCAA Championships, earned multiple academic honours, and built an incredible life balancing elite sport with a degree in Sp ...