From Fencing to Environmental Science

For this Duke fencer, the two worlds collide

Before most Duke students are awake, Zizi Newhard is already in motion. 

A junior from Birmingham, Mich., Newhard moves through the day quickly between two worlds: biology and environmental science in the classroom, and foil fencing with Duke Fencing. The two worlds seem different, but intersect by way of Newhard’s leadership, teamwork and creativity.

Newhard’s mornings start early. Practice comes first, where footwork, timing and strategy are sharpened through repetition. From there, she shifts into the academic side of her day, heading to classes and labs, where she conducts hands-on research in climate and environmental biology. At Duke, learning doesn’t stay contained: Newhard relishes that her courses extend into places throughout campus, giving her the freedom to explore and engage deeply.

“I would say the advantages to studying climate, biology and environmental science at Duke is all the resources we have available here,” says Newhard.

“There’s definitely a lot of innovative labs for undergrads to participate and research in. In addition, we have stuff like the greenhouse, Duke Campus Farm, and Duke Forest that are often integrated into classes.”

By late afternoon, the pace doesn’t let up. There’s more training, time in the weight room and the physical work that builds strength behind the sport.

And then, a moment to reset. Newhard often concludes the day with teammates over dinner, a reminder that the grind is shared.

It’s a rhythm that challenges the idea of what a “typical” day looks like. And it’s one Zizi embraces fully.

“One of the biggest misconceptions people have about fencing is that we’re not a real sport,” said Newhard. “But in reality, we’re in here four days a week training, putting in the hours and doing all the same things that other sports do.”

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