As Stanford's student-athletes have departed campus for home, it's time to get to know the members of the sailing team. Today's edition features Taylor Kirkpatrick.
How did you get your start with sailing?
My parents put me in the bow of their daysailer before I could walk and I haven't looked back since. I learned to sail on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island alongside my younger brother, John Kirkpatrick (a current sophomore and teammate at Stanford). Sailing has always been a sport that I can share with my family and I am so thankful for my parents' encouragement along the way, especially as I got into the competitive arena.
What did competing on the sailing team at Stanford mean to you?
Competing on the sailing team at Stanford was truly a centerpiece to my undergraduate experience. The team was like a family to me. Although, I am sad that my time on the team is coming to a close, I know that the individuals who I shared this experience with will be teammates, competitors, and friends for life.
Do you plan to continue sailing after graduation? Any post-graduate plans?
I definitely plan to continue sailing after graduation, likely with an emphasis on dinghy sailing and team racing. While I am currently sheltering in place with my family in Rhode Island, I am looking forward to moving to San Francisco to begin work in July. Many Stanford sailing alumni are living in the Bay Area and I am excited to reconnect with them!
Favorite memory on the team?
Hard to narrow down...
What are you currently doing away from campus?
I am currently sheltering in place with my family in Rhode Island. As we enter week three of online class, I am comforted by establishing a new "normal" routine at home. I try to focus on taking breaks between classes to get outside!
How has your Stanford experience helped you manage the COVID-19 situation?
In multi-faceted ways ... time management, compartmentalization, etc.