Maryland Today | Terp Goes for Trampoline Gymnastics Glory

Criminology and Criminal Justice Student Competes in Paris Olympics

By Maryland Today Staff Jul 31, 2024

Editor's Note: Jessica Stevens placed 13th in the qualification round.

A University of Maryland student who recalls “bouncing off the walls” as a toddler is now one of the world’s top trampoline gymnasts and will compete Friday at the 2024 Olympic Games.

“I love getting to represent the United States,” says Jessica Stevens ’24. “It’s a huge honor.”

Stevens earned a bronze medal at last fall’s world championships to secure the U.S. one of just eight berths in Paris. She’s coached by fellow Terp Konstantin Gulisashvili ’19, M.Arch. ’23 and balances her studies in criminology and criminal justice and Russian with daily training at the Fairland Sports and Aquatics Complex in Laurel, Md.

In this new “Peer Review” video series highlighting remarkable UMD faculty, staff, students and alums, get a sneak peek at how Stevens is soaring toward her highest achievement.

Athletics

Criminology and Criminal Justice Languages Student Experience

College of Arts and Humanities College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Stevens competes Friday at 6 a.m. ET; the full event will be streamed on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.