Olivia Backholm studies engineering at a top school: 'All recruiters know this institution'

While discussions in Finland often focus on athletes balancing sports with studies or work, Olivia Backholm is pursuing a different path. The 20-year-old, a medalist in youth championships and a national team representative, is prioritizing her academic ambitions over her athletic ones.

Backholm is currently studying engineering at a prestigious university in the United States, a choice she made with a clear vision for her future. She believes that her education is paramount, with her athletic endeavors serving as a complementary aspect of her life rather than the primary focus.

This approach challenges the conventional notion of a "dual career" in sports. Instead of sports supporting education, Backholm's model sees her engineering studies as the main pillar, with her athletic achievements playing a supportive role. This perspective reflects a growing trend among young athletes to consider long-term career goals beyond the duration of their sports careers, especially when pursuing studies at highly regarded institutions where recruiters are aware of the school's reputation.