Harvard graduate Gabby Thomas reveals how neurobiology degree helped her become most decorated track and field athlete at Paris Olympics 2024

By Janhavi Shinde

Modified Aug 13, 2024 03:04 GMT

Following her successful streak at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Gabby Thomas opened up on how her degree in neurobiology helped her enhance her performance. Thomas clinched three gold medals at the prestigious games.

She secured the highest number of gold medals for the Team USA athletics squad, followed by Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone's two gold medals. Following her glorious feat, Thomas attributed her victory run to her academic background.

Before completing her master's degree in epidemiology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, the American sprinter graduated from Harvard University in neurobiology and global health.

In an interview with CNN, Thomas stated that her knowledge of neurobiology is a significant factor in her success in track and field.

"I have a really strong foundation on that and that was one of the reasons why I wanted to pursue neurobiology as my major and having that deep understanding of it I think has really helped me in my track career as well because I understand what it takes to get this level. I understand the mindset, I understand all those little things that make a big difference and the mindset is a difference stream to being on the podium or not," Gabby said.

Along with her academic and Olympic pursuits, Gabby Thomas also volunteers with a healthcare clinic.

Gabby Thomas secured the highest number of medals in the track and field events for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Gabby Thomas reacts to winning the gold medal in the Women's 200m final at the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo via Getty Images)

Gabby Thomas secured three gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, in 200m, 4x100m relay, and 4x400m relay events. She became the highest medal-winning track and field athlete for the USA.

The 27-year-old is followed by Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Rai Benjamin with two gold medals. Thomas clinched her first gold medal in the 200m after clocking an impressive time of 21.83 seconds and followed by Julien Alfred and Brittany Brown, who clocked 22.08 and 22.20 seconds, respectively.

She further went on to contribute to her team's success in the relay events. Thomas ran the third leg in the 4x100m relay event, posting 10.25 seconds before handing the baton to Sha'Carri Richardson, who led the team to the top position on the podium. In the 4x400m relay, she again ran the third leg, the fastest third leg of the lineup, contributing to the team's gold medal.