When Anna French transferred to Montana State University (MSU) in 2017, her focus was on academics and athletics, not on biathlon training. Now, seven years later, she stands out as a doctoral student and one of the top female biathletes in the U.S.
French initially focused on her role in MSU’s cross-country and track and field teams, earning two bachelor’s degrees in biological science and chemistry with highest honors. Her achievements led to recognition as the top science student with the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence.
Despite a collegiate running career marked by injuries, French’s journey led her back to skiing and eventually to biathlon, a sport combining cross-country skiing and target shooting. She excelled, becoming one of five members of Team USA’s International Biathlon Union (IBU) Cup squad.
James Becker, an associate professor at MSU and co-director of the Neuromuscular Biomechanics Laboratory, praised French’s dedication, noting the difficulty of qualifying for the IBU Cup. French uses the lab to improve her biathlon performance, benefiting from Becker’s expertise and the lab’s resources.
French’s commitment extends beyond academics and athletics. She joined the Hyalite Fire Department to increase her upper-body strength, graduating from fire academy and continuing as a volunteer firefighter. Additionally, she works with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists and hydrologists at MSU, showcasing her versatility and dedication.
Despite her success, French remains grounded, expressing satisfaction with life at MSU. She plans to finish her doctorate in three years and pursue a career in academia, embodying the university’s spirit of excellence both on and off the field.
