This week row2k features Northeastern senior Amanda Brem. Brem started rowing as a novice (on an ultimatum) and is now stroking the Huskies' Varsity 8.

row2k - How did you get your start in rowing at Northeastern?
Amanda Brem - My rowing career began like most important choices in my life: an ultimatum from my mother. Fearing I would get into trouble in college if I wasn't busy, she gave me the choice of applying to the honors program or trying out for the rowing team. I chose rowing, foolishly thinking it would be easier. By the time I realized the commitment I had gotten myself into, I had already fallen in love with the sport.

row2k - What was your athletic background prior to finding the sport?
Amanda Brem - I was not 'sporty' in high school. I rode horses and skiied all my life, but had never been on a varsity sport or considered myself a jock. Once I started rowing, I learned how amazing it felt to be fit and strong, and I've continued to push the limits of my physical ability.

row2k - In your opinion, what is unique about rowing for Northeastern?
Amanda Brem - Our coaches make the Northeastern program stand apart. They pay particular attention to developing younger rowers and have an integral walk-on program. In my four years here I have felt supported and encouraged in every step of my training, and I've been treated with the same respect from when I was a first year walk-on to my senior season. Our coaches ask for one thing: consistent hard work. As long as an athlete puts in the time and effort, they will be respected regardless of what their level is. I really appreciate that about our program, and I feel we would not be as successful without the coaches attention to improving every single athlete.

row2k - What do you like most about the sport of rowing?
Amanda Brem - I love how accomplished I feel when I complete a workout. The best part of rowing is I never have to be alone through a hard piece, and I'm always pulling for the other girls in my boat. When I cross the finish line, there are seven other girls who can share exactly how much pain and elation I feel. It is one of the most selfless experiences I've ever been a part of.

row2k - What has been your most memorable race so far and why?
Amanda Brem - I'll never forget my first race at the Eastern Sprints my freshman year. I had just been moved up to the 2V a few weeks before, and had torn two ligaments in my ankle that Monday. I forgot all about my injury that day, because the races were so amazing and I figured out how much pain I was willing to endure to cross the line first. It gave me a confidence that I still carry with me.

row2k - What are your strengths as both a student and an athlete?
Amanda Brem - I am the most successful when I know what is expected of me. At Northeastern, my coaches and my professors have been very clear about how to be successful. I like to follow directions and execute each step as accurately as possible, which usually results in a successful achievement.

row2k - What are you studying at Northeastern and do you have any plans yet for after college?
Amanda Brem - I am studying Biology with a minor in Psychology. Since rowing, I have developed an interest in sports nutrition and food, because what rowers eat is so critical for performance. I'd like to become a sports nutritionist after graduating Northeastern, and help other athletes improve their diet and by extension, their success.

row2k - To what extent has rowing impacted your life in a positive way?
Amanda Brem - Rowing has completely changed my self-image. I have a much better sense of how much I can accomplish with perseverance, and I have been given a purpose and structure throughout my college experience. I feel lucky that I found rowing and had the opportunity to pursue a sport at such an elite level. Most importantly, rowing has allowed me to meet and be influenced by incredibly talented and motivated people who continue to inspire me every day.