As part of our new “Stern Hobbies” series, The Oppy is taking a look at off-the-beaten-path interests among some of our classmates at Stern. If you have a hobby you would like to write or be interviewed about, please e-mail the Oppy at [email protected]. Today’s feature is a Q&A with MBA student, Lexi Frey.
Tell us about yourself!
I grew up in South Jersey and went to Bucknell University for undergrad where I studied Biomedical Engineering. When I graduated, I moved down to Raleigh-Durham, NC to work at a small surgical robotics company called TransEnterix; I have always been passionate about healthcare, and this was a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of technology and medicine. I became interested in moving from engineering to the business side, and my now husband got a job in NYC, so I applied to Stern, got an interview, and well … the rest is history!
How did you get into knitting and when did you first start learning?
I first learned how to knit in college. A roommate of mine knitted in the winter when it was too cold to go out on a Friday night, and after relentlessly teasing her, I finally gave in and asked if she’d teach me!
Have you always been knitting or is this a hobby you rediscovered during quarantine?
Since college, I’ve mostly knit simple things in the winter months, and put it away in the summer. But since March, we’ve obviously had a lot more free time, so I decided to really dive in and devote more time to it. I think I’ll probably continue to knit year round if I can since I’ve realized how calming and relaxing it can be for me.
What’s your favorite piece and why?
That’s tough…. I love the old stuff I’ve made because it’s riddled with mistakes and you can tell I was a beginner. But I just finished a hat that I feel looks really professional so I’m super proud of it (pictured).
Would you ever consider having knitting as a side business and selling on Etsy?
I would definitely consider opening an Etsy someday, but right now I’m focused on technique and speed – two things that are absolutely necessary to finish pieces on time and mistake-free. Once I get that down, I’ll consider it! For now, I’m just happy to be making things for family & friends. Anyone interested in a custom order can DM me @wonderfullymadeknits on IG!
