Stella McCardie on NCAA Swimming, Life at UConn & Competing with Olympians

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Stella McCardie, NCAA Division I swimmer at the University of Connecticut (UConn), as she reflects on her journey so far. Stella shares what it’s like training and competing in one of the world’s most competitive collegiate environments - including what it means to swim alongside Olympians and elite teammates. From early morning workouts to life on campus, recovery, nutrition, and balancing academics, Stella gives us the full picture of life as a UConn student-athlete.

Whether you’re a future student-athlete or a fan of college sports, this interview gives a unique insight into what it really takes to succeed at the NCAA level.