From Halfpipe to Humanities: A Unique Athlete

The world of elite freestyle skiing and the academic rigor of Stanford University might seem worlds apart, but for Zoe Atkin, they’ve become seamlessly integrated. The 23-year-aged, born in Newton, Massachusetts, is making waves both on the Olympic halfpipe and in the classroom, studying symbolic systems.

Atkin represents Great Britain in international competition, having become the world champion in the halfpipe in 2025. She holds dual citizenship, with roots in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

A Family Legacy and Early Development

Zoe Atkin’s parents, Winnie and Mike Atkin, met while working at the World Bank. Her mother is from Malaysia and her father is from England. The family moved to Park City, Utah, when Zoe was 10 to support the skiing aspirations of Zoe and her older sister, Isabel.

Zoe is a graduate of the Winter Sports School, a specialized high school for student athletes. She enrolled at Stanford University in 2022.

Applying Brain Science to Overcome Fear

Atkin’s academic pursuits aren’t just a separate endeavor; she actively applies her studies to her athletic performance. She studies symbolic systems – a field encompassing cognitive science, computer science and the study of the brain.

I have learned so much that has helped me so much being an athlete in an action sport. The tricks and manoeuvres that we’re doing inherently have a lot of risk to them, Zoe Atkin

She has openly discussed her struggles with fear, particularly when she was younger, and how understanding the mechanisms of the brain has provided her with new mindsets and strategies to push her limits.

I’ve struggled with fear a lot in the past, especially when I was younger. Learning about the mechanisms of the brain has really helped me apply those learnings and new mindsets and be able to test those theories, in practice, in my sport. Zoe Atkin

The halfpipe presents inherent risks, with a nearly 12-meter drop onto ice should a maneuver go wrong. Atkin has found a way to harness that pressure.

It’s in those really hard moments that you show yourself what is possible and that is when you really push your limits. I’ve been able to find my power in that. Zoe Atkin

Looking Ahead

Zoe Atkin’s story is a testament to the power of combining intellectual curiosity with athletic dedication. As she continues to compete at the highest level, her unique approach promises to inspire a new generation of athletes.

FAQ

What does Zoe Atkin study at Stanford?

Zoe Atkin studies symbolic systems, a mix of cognitive science, computer science, and the study of the brain.

For which country does Zoe Atkin compete?

Zoe Atkin competes for Great Britain.

Where was Zoe Atkin born?

Zoe Atkin was born in Newton, Massachusetts.