We were delighted to welcome back Lucia Doak (Class of 2020), who returned to Kristin to share her experiences on the Athlete–Scholar pathway in the USA.

 

Lucia recently graduated Cum Laude from the University of California (UC), San Diego, where she attended on an athletic scholarship. Lucia graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Economy and Society, and a minor in Psychology. Cum Laude honours are awarded to the students with GPAs in the top 14% of the graduating class, and Lucia completed her degree with a 3.93 Cumulative GPA. 

 

Lucia played for the UC San Diego NCAA Division 1 Women’s Water Polo team, where she was recognised as a member of the ACWPC All-Academic Team all 4 years in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, and the CSC Academic All-District Team in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Alongside her collegiate career, she also represented the New Zealand Senior Women’s team at the 2022 FINA World League Super Final in Spain. Lucia is continuing her Water Polo journey, playing professionally in Pamplona, Spain, in the upcoming season.

 

Alongside her sport and studies, Lucia took on a leadership opportunity to become a member of the Triton Athletic Council and establish a student group called the International Scholar-Athlete Association, which she chaired alongside a committee of other International Scholar-Athletes for 3 years. The association aims to foster a more connected, supported and celebrated International Scholar-Athlete Community at UC San Diego.

 

During her visit to Kristin, Lucia shared her inspiring journey and offered valuable advice to students. She spoke about the determination and diligence required when applying to American universities, the value of making meaningful connections and the importance of identifying your own ‘must-haves’ in order to find the best possible college fit. She encouraged students to be empowered, proactive and well-informed when navigating opportunities.

 

With genuine warmth, she invited students to reach out with their questions, keen to support those interested in pursuing a similar pathway. The Kristin community is immensely proud of Lucia’s achievements and grateful for her willingness to give back by inspiring the next generation of Kristin students.