Jessica Hardy graduated from Arizona State University last night, just over a month before the start of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.
In 2007, Hardy left her initial degree unfinished when she left Cal-Berkeley to turn pro.
Now, she told AZ Central that this summer is likely her last summer of competition, so having her degree would be key to making a smoother transition to a post competitive swimming life.
The 2012 Olympian now has an undergraduate degree in Communication. Hardy completed her course work online, beginning in 2014, seven years since she had last been in the classroom.
“Not finishing has been a big weight on my shoulders for the past almost 10 years,” said the 29 year old.
Now with the weight lifted, Hardy will head for Trials where she will attempt to make her second Olympic team. Her meet was cut short at the Arena Pro Swim Series in Mesa after a collision in warm up left her concussed. Hardy was back in action at the Fran Crippen Swim Meet of Champions two weeks ago. She is not entered in either of this weekend’s big meets- the Arena Pro Swim Charlotte nor the Atlanta Classic.
Congratulations, Jessica.
Win, lose or draw @. Omaha and then hopefully @. Rio you will always have your degree to fall back on.
Congratulations young lady! ? ?
Congratulations!!??
Congrats and way to hang in there ! Amazing fortitude