From early morning practices on the Schuylkill River to late-night study sessions on campus, Sabrina Cottringer, EDU ’28, embodies the true spirit of a Temple Owl. She is driven, dedicated and determined to make an impact both in the classroom and on the water. 

Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, Cottringer is an international student in the College of Education and Human Development at Temple University, pursuing a degree in middle grades education. She is also on the university's rowing team. 

"I was inspired to come to Philadelphia to study because of the opportunities available here,” Cottringer said. “It will be a bit quicker to earn my degree, and I can still row." 

Coming from a family of teachers, education has always been a part of Cottringer’s story. “Both my parents are teachers, and both of my cousins are currently in school to become teachers, so it’s kind of like a family thing,” she explained. For Cottringer, teaching feels like second nature, something she was meant to do, and she notes that her own teachers helped inspire her. 

Rowing, however, became her second classroom. She began her rowing journey in 2020. “During COVID, my high school brought back the rowing team through Zoom workouts,” she said. “It helped me stay active, and when restrictions were lifted, we got back on the water.” 

At Temple, her mornings begin before sunrise. “Our bus is at 6:30 a.m. The men’s team goes at 5:45, so I’m lucky!” she laughed. “We practice every morning except Sunday. It’s early, but once you get used to it, it becomes part of your routine.” After practice, she heads straight to class, then takes a quick break, and lifts in the afternoon. “It’s a good balance of practice early, classes during the day, and time after to do homework or hang out with friends,” she said. “It’s similar to my high school routine, so it’s been easy to adjust.” 

Her commitment shows in her accomplishments. As a first-year student, she raced in every regatta, making her collegiate debut by helping Temple place fourth among non-Ivy schools. She later helped the team win a medal at Dad Vails, a highlight of her rowing career so far. “We worked hard all season for it,” she said proudly. “This year, we have a conference in Michigan, so hopefully we can medal again.” 

Cottringer appreciates all she has learned from rowing. “Working together as a team and being in a group of girls who are dedicated, proactive and all want the best for each other—that really translates into leadership and education,” she shared. 

Outside of rowing, Cottringer stays involved on campus through several organizations, including the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAC), Morgan’s Message and Global Owls, an international student athlete club. “Being in clubs with other student athletes who have similar schedules is really rewarding,” she said.  

Her favorite memory? “A few weeks ago, we went to Ambler Campus for a wellness day and planted trees together. We also did yoga and other off-water bonding activities. It really builds team connection.” 

Philadelphia quickly became Cottringer’s home away from home. “The city inspires me because I’m surrounded by passionate people chasing their goals. Living in a big city shows how many opportunities there are out there. It motivates me to keep going,” she said. Her favorite local spot is Reading Terminal Market, which has become a new family tradition. “My parents took me there on my first day in Philadelphia when they dropped me off at Temple, so it became a tradition to go there every time they visit,” she said. “There’s even ice cream with a churro. It’s so good!” 

Beyond rowing and school, Cottringer is a full-on Philly sports fan. “I love sports! I go to lacrosse, Flyers, and Phillies games with my teammates,” she said excitedly. “I haven’t been to an Eagles game yet, but it’s on my list!” 

Transitioning from Canada to the U.S. wasn’t without its quirks. “Some of the words people use! They say I have an accent. Apparently, I say ‘bag’ weird,” she laughed. “We also call hats ‘toques.’ Even some rowing terms are different in Canada, so it took me about a month or two to get used to it.” 

For international students thinking about coming to Temple, Cottringer’s advice is filled with warmth and encouragement: “Don’t be afraid to meet other international students. Temple has a big international community. Get close with your team and find similarities. Everyone is welcoming, and it makes integrating much easier.” 

And, of course, the final question every Temple student must answer is, “late-night Maxi’s or early morning Richie’s?” Cottringer didn’t hesitate: “Definitely early morning Richie’s. Everyone goes there to catch up and get coffee. It’s the perfect start to the day.” 

Sabrina Cottringer has a bright future ahead of her. As she navigates Temple life with pride and perseverance, she continues to balance her responsibilities with grace and optimism. From adapting to American culture to learning new crew vocabulary, Cottringer’s journey is one of resilience and passion. “It’s a lot, but I love it,” she said, noting Philadelphia can truly become your home away from home. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

- An article by Caitlin Quintos