Class of 2020
Indianola, Iowa
Why did you choose Central?
Everyone is extremely friendly and wants to see you succeed during your time here and I could tell that from my first visit. It makes for a very great environment that I saw myself thriving in, and here I am!
Favorite professor and why?
Profesora Korcheck. She teaches her Spanish courses in a way that stretches your limits, requires hard work, but ultimately helps you learn so much in a way that stays with you. This is something key for any language as constant practice is the key to fluency.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
This is a question that I could write a book about because of all of the music that I listen to. But to keep it relatively short: Tyler Childers, Colter Wall, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams, Marty Robbins, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Kid Cudi, and Christian Nodal. There are tons more that I listen to so check out my Spotify.
You’re majoring in Biology and Spanish because?
I am majoring in Biology because I am very intrigued by studying about all living organisms, humans being the main one. I am planning on going to chiropractic school after Central and the major has done a great job of preparing me for that.
I am majoring in Spanish because I enjoy all aspects of Latinx culture, especially after my study abroad in Mexico the fall of my junior year. The language, people, food, music, and dancing are all amazing. If anyone is looking to learn a bit of salsa let me know (food or dance).
Best part about your study abroad experience?
Staying with my host family! It was truly the best way to connect with real people and practice my Spanish the maximum amount possible. My homestay family was extremely friendly, experts in the kitchen, and a great group of people overall. I really miss the variety of homemade meals and conversations that we had at the dinner table. ¡Les extraño a toda mi gente en México!
What's the most expensive thing you've ever broken?
I don’t know the cost of it, but I notoriously broke the parking gate outside of Kuyper when I was chauffeuring people in the golf cart for a football game. I thought I was never going to hear the end of it, especially from Coach Van Kley. Between you and me, it was totally worth it.
If you were reincarnated as an animal, what would it be?
I feel like I would be an owl, but I don’t really know why.
What’s the most important part of the sandwich?
Having a couple pieces of nice bread is the key to having a good sandwich. I personally like to toast my bread before I make my sandwiches. It takes the texture to a whole new level and makes eating that much more enjoyable.
If you were 80 years old, what would you tell your children and grandchildren?
Be as creative as possible and don’t be afraid to be unique. That is how you truly set yourself apart from others and who can be a better “you” than yourself?
Who is your hero/inspiration?
David Goggins, I read his book this summer and it is amazing what all he has overcome. Abused as a kid, rejected from the Navy, losing 100 lbs in three months to make the recruiting weight requirement, and becoming a Navy SEAL after having to restart his training a total of three times. He has never had an easy life but always overcomes his obstacles. Now he is an ultramarathoner, pull-up World Record Holder, and an inspiration to many, myself included. He is a true example of using your mind to tap into your true physical potential.
Favorite TV Show
I’m not a big TV guy, to be honest, I spend a lot of time doing creative things.
What’s one thing people might not know about Coach Van Kley
He’s a very smart student of anatomy. He always seems to be telling me that the triceps make up two-thirds of the upper arm. I will take his word for it but I think he might need to work on his a bit more, they were a little small the last time I checked.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central Wrestling?
I really enjoy having a group of guys who are so close to each other. Not only are we all close friends, but we also know how to push each other in the wrestling room to make each other better.
“Ten years from now I’ll...”
Owning my own chiropractic practice (hopefully speaking a mix of English and Spanish), operating my pottery business to keep my creative side in touch, maybe have a few kids running around, and traveling to lots of different Spanish-speaking countries!
Favorite food from Central Market
Overnight oats! They are an awesome way to get the day started and come in lots of different flavors. A perfect mix of fiber, protein, and carbs.
Bucket list
Go to a Pearl Jam concert (my favorite band), learn to play the guitar, and maybe have a piece of my pottery in a museum (Tanner Zimmerman Pottery if you would like to check out my stuff ;) ).
