The article originally appeared in Maryland Today. Written by Maryland Today Staff.
A University of Maryland student who recalls “bouncing off the walls” as a toddler is now one of the world’s top trampoline gymnasts and will compete Friday at the 2024 Olympic Games.
“I love getting to represent the United States,” says Jessica Stevens ’24. “It’s a huge honor.”
Stevens earned a bronze medal at last fall’s world championships to secure the U.S. one of just eight berths in Paris. She’s coached by fellow Terp Konstantin Gulisashvili ’19, M.Arch. ’23 and balances her studies in criminology and criminal justice and Russian with daily training at the Fairland Sports and Aquatics Complex in Laurel, Md.
In this new “Peer Review” video series highlighting remarkable UMD faculty, staff, students and alums, get a sneak peek at how Stevens is soaring toward her highest achievement.