I believe I read somewhere (can't remember where) that she realized studying neurosurgery and competing would not work concurrently and that therefore she is thinking of studying journalism first (while also competing) and then perhaps switching careers later. And she also needs to fit her equestrian career in somewhere.
Yes, Falun, Aliona said that in an interview earlier this season (can't remember exactly which one).
Of course, if Aliona wants to be a neurosurgeon, that is an amazing goal, but as a selfish/greedy fan, I personally hope she opts for sports journalism so that she'll still be in the public eye (and we can see her!). :yes: To me, it just seems like a waste of her star power and charisma for her to be covered up in a mask and hidden away in an operating room... But if that's her heart's desire, then so be it! :agree: