Central College Athletics

Laurynn Mize
Sycamore, Ill.
Class of 2021

Why did you choose Central?

Central was the place that I had that gut feeling about. It was the only acceptance letter that made my stomach  flip, and after my overnight visit I was beyond sold. Additionally, I didn’t think that if I went to another school I’d be able to do as many different things as I’ve been able to- which has definitely turned out to be true. 
 
Favorite professor and why?

I think I’m gonna go with Dr. Mahmood. I have a lot of professors that have really impacted me but her Intro to Cultural Anthropology class and her life stories in general just transcend the academic and leave you fired up for your life. 
 
You’re majoring in Business Management and Spanish because? 

The combination will (hopefully!) best set me up for the career I’m set on. 
 
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

I’m part of the leadership team for Dutch Brigade and for EAM Club, I work in the Writing Center and Admissions office, and I really enjoy attending sustainability events on campus.
 
Who are your go-to musical artists?

That usually depends on my mood but Willie Nelson, Billy Currington, and Kacey Musgraves are just superb always 
 
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Well for one I think it’s going to set me up really well to maintain a healthy lifestyle going forward after graduation, which is something I think gets overlooked sometimes as an advantage of DIII athletics, but otherwise I would say it’s just so nice to have that constant there. Your teammates and coaches are always there for you, you can always go de-stress at practice, and there’s always chocolate milk at the end of lifting :)
 
Where is the most relaxing place you’ve ever been?

The Nueces River in Montell, Texas. Sunshine down to your bones. 
 
Would you rather live on the beach or in a cabin in the woods?

The beach is awesome for vacations but I think I’d really like a cabin in the woods. 
 
What is your favorite throwback song?

I remember TikTok by Kesha being my friend group’s absolute favorite and now looking back at it I’m like I had absolutely no business singing that song in junior high but it's still a bop for sure!!
 
What is your biggest pet peeve?
 
Beeping noises, I have no idea why
 
Favorite TV Show

I love the Office but who doesn’t so I’ll mention my deep and abounding love for nature documentaries
 
What’s it like to play for Coach Ferrell?

Coach Ferrell is a whole experience. Most people know him as the loud goofy guy in Maytag, but he’s also very serious, and extremely loyal to his team. If you need him, he is there for you without question. He was actually the first person I talked to when my dad died and if that doesn’t speak volumes about the care and concern he has for his athletes I don’t know what does. 
 
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central tennis? 

Obnoxiously loud singing on the bus rides- Maddie Hartley is a queen on aux
 
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

In 10 years I hope to be working outside of the U.S. at a green enterprise, working to make totally sustainable living the norm for people rather than a daunting challenge. 
 
Favorite food from Central Market

CHICKEN. WRAPS. Wrap night is marked on my calendar every week. I am very sad when I miss it. 
 
Bucket list

-See every continent
-Learn a third language
-Visit as many UNESCO world heritage sites as I can
-Be a fabulous old lady