What used to be a somewhat controversial decision, to leave the “safety” of the traditional skiing pathway especially for the collegiate circuit, has become a gateway for a slew of successful skiers. Jordheim discusses how a former coach sparked the idea for her. “I wasn’t really considering it until he told me more about it. It sounded like a fun experience, and I though one year won’t hurt.” And one year turned into four years for her at the University of Utah, “I’ve missed it ever since I left.” 

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Risk taking or an alternative pathway?

“In one way, it was initially hard to picture what impact college and college skiing would have on my athletic performance. It was also a belief that the level of competition in Scandinavia was a bit higher.” Jordheim revealed that she was fortunate to be surrounded by both very experienced and fast athletes, which was clear with the continued success of the University of Utah ski team. 

“I think our motivation to do our best in training and to be a part of the college experience was a key to do well in skiing.” While it looks as though it’s all training and racing there is the aspect of being a full-time student, impressively while balancing both, Jordheim believes it was part of what made her into a faster skier. 

“The experience went way above anything I could ever picture beforehand. I even think it’s hard to fully describe the full college experience to a Norwegian. You got to be there, to know.” 

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Go big or go home 

“The University games, bigger than any sport venue in Norway.  Athletic facilities, that have it all.” The college culture, spectacular nature, and college circuit are a highlight for Jordheim.

“Outdoor adventures that are very different from the ones in Norway and Europe, and most of all great friends all around the world. After the season ended, we would go backcountry skiing in the cottonwoods before school. It could be both powder and corn, all April.”  Jordheim continues, “We got avalanche, climbing, mountaineering and canyoneering education through collegiate classes which set us up for even greater adventures.”

Even with all the success the team had at NCAA’s, Jordheim thought it sounded like a “cliché” story “It’s the friendships and people I met that made the biggest part of me.”While almost forgetting her trip to the White House, “And… almost forgot to mention we went to the White House to meet the former president Trump. Hard to describe the absurd feeling of meeting the President of The United States, knowing his reputation. However, it was a fun experience.”

What do you miss most about college skiing days? 

“What I miss the most is the fun vibe, the team, and doing it all together. After moving back home I’ve come to realize that days with school, training and hanging out with friends fulfills your life and you don’t really need much more. Busy days were still quite simple. Also, I cannot not mention the weather being always sunny. At least, that’s what stand out of all the memories.”

What would you say to young skiers who are looking to go to America for study and ski race? 

“I would do it again 10 out of 10 times. It’s an experience that is hard to describe without going.  Once you’re there, my advice would be to embrace the whole experience. Make the most out of it. Get to know your team, school and people around. Be open, and it will take you places.”

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