Jen Tries and Fails to Find Passion in Fencing

Lafayette student's first fencing lesson leaves her feeling awkward and afraid of getting hit.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:04am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a fencing mask repeated in a tight grid pattern, using a vibrant neon color palette overlapping with heavy black photographic outlines to turn the iconic fencing equipment into modern pop art.Jen's first fencing lesson left her feeling awkward and afraid, but the experience of trying a new activity still proved valuable.Lafayette Today

Jen Parsons, a student at Lafayette University, decided to try fencing for the first time this week. However, she quickly discovered that the sport was not a natural fit for her, as she struggled with the proper techniques and was too timid to effectively attack her opponent. Despite the challenges, Jen says she's grateful for the experience and acknowledges that it's just as important to figure out what activities are not for you as it is to find new passions.

Why it matters

Trying new hobbies and activities is an important part of the college experience, as it allows students to explore their interests and discover hidden talents. Jen's story highlights how even when an activity doesn't turn out to be a perfect match, the experience of stepping outside one's comfort zone can still be valuable.

The details

Jen arrived at fencing practice eager to learn, but she immediately found the sport to be extremely difficult. She had trouble holding the blade properly and was nervous to attack her opponent. When paired up with Assistant News Editor Makenna McCall '27 for a practice bout, Jen was unable to land a single hit, as Makenna easily parried her attacks. Despite the frustration, Jen's fencing instructor, Tyler Morse '26, told her that for a first-timer, she didn't do too badly, and that the improper blade grip was likely a major factor in her struggles.

  • Jen tried fencing for the first time this week.

The players

Jen Parsons

A student at Lafayette University who decided to try fencing for the first time.

Tyler Morse '26

A captain of the Lafayette University fencing team who provided instruction to Jen during her first fencing lesson.

Makenna McCall '27

The Assistant News Editor at Lafayette's student newspaper, who fenced against Jen during her practice session.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of it is just sort of pushing through the awkwardness at the beginning. It's a very particular way you have to hold the blade, and how you have to move around.”

— Tyler Morse, Fencing Team Captain

“For your first time, it wasn't bad. I mean, obviously, I think the way you were holding it sort of limits how you could do. If you don't hold it the proper way, it's gonna make it a lot harder.”

— Tyler Morse, Fencing Team Captain

The takeaway

Jen's experience with fencing shows that trying new activities, even if they don't turn out to be a perfect fit, can still be a valuable part of the college experience. While she struggled with the sport and didn't find a new passion, she was grateful for the opportunity and acknowledges that it's just as important to discover what you don't enjoy as it is to find new hobbies you love.