Jacob Sanders
Nevada, Iowa
Class of 2023
Why did you chose Central?
I have a lot of family members (my brother, grandpa, and many cousins) who have been student-athletes here and enjoyed it a lot. I knew I wanted to continue running in college and the culture and success of the cross country and track and field programs here stood out to me. Once I came on my overnight visit and met most of the team, I quickly knew I wanted to be a part of the Dutch family. I also liked the idea of being at a school with a small, tight knit campus and small class sizes.
Favorite professor and why?
Professor Mark Thomas. I have had a couple of classes with him, and he always keep class interesting and engaging. He makes you think critically about questions which can be difficult and frustrating in the moment but is helpful in the end. He is always willing to help his students out.
You’re majoring in business management and philosophy because?
I am majoring in business management because I enjoy learning about different marketing and management concepts. There are many ways in which I will be able to use a business degree and the skills I have learned from the classes when I graduate. I am also majoring in philosophy because it will better equip me to evaluate and resolve problems for the rest of my life. I think its important to consider multiple perspectives in situations and that’s what philosophy promotes.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Most importantly, I work for the best people on campus in the Sports Information Department! I’m also involved with SAAC, FCA, and work-study in Kuyper.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
Future, Lil Baby, Migos, 42 Dugg, YG, Moneybagg Yo, SOB X RBE, Zay KG, Small Town World
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Attending Central has had huge positive impacts on my development both as a student, and as an athlete. Because of the liberal arts structure, I have taken and really enjoyed some classes that pushed me outside of my comfort zone. This has connected me with some different students and professors on campus. Being a part of the cross country and track and field teams have given me amazing memories and relationships that will truly last a lifetime.
Teammate who could win on Survivor?
This is an easy one. Thatcher Krob. He is a good athlete, mentally tough, and smart and those are the qualities that you need to have, to be successful in that environment. He is also a very resourceful person who seems to love and be comfortable in nature, no matter how grueling the conditions may be. Without a doubt in my mind, he would be able to withstand the duration of the competition and eventually win it all (and then split the prize money with me because I was so confident in him).
Where is the most relaxing place you've ever been?
Alaska. My uncle lives in Palmer, which is a town near Anchorage, and I have been fortunate to visit him there twice. Both times were during the summer, so the weather was very nice and there was sunlight basically 24/7. I went on a couple of runs when I was there, and the trails were right by a river and there were mountains in the background. I wish I could bring the mountains back to Iowa.
If you could live in a book, movie or tv show, what would it be and why?
I would live in the movie
Kicking and Screaming. Soccer has always been one of my favorite sports to play, and I think it would be funny to have a crazy Will Ferrell as my coach. The other kids on the team are also characters so there would be lots of memorable moments, even if the quality of soccer wasn’t always the best. And in the end, being the underdog and defeating the best team in the league in the championship would make all the struggles worth it.
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
A really cool view from a bluff that overlooks La Crosse, Wisconsin, when we were there for a cross country meet.
Favorite TV Show
I haven’t watched a ton of shows, but I really enjoyed Outer Banks on Netflix and Letterkenny on Hulu. My brother and I also really enjoyed watching The Last Dance, which is a documentary that features the goat, Michael Jordan. When I was growing up, the original SportsNation show on ESPN was my favorite.
What's it like to run for for Coach Dunham?
Fun. Lots of fun. He is such a good motivator and will let you know how proud of you his is, after you have a great workout or race. He will also keep you accountable and let you know what you need to work on after a not-so-great workout or race. As athletes, we know we can always stop by his office or send him a text when we may need something (running related, or not) and that shows how much he cares for everyone in the program.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central cross country?
The built-in family that comes with the team. We live together, eat together, have classes together, run together every day and the list goes on. I have created some of my best friendships through the team and have no doubt that the relationships will last a lifetime.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
I hope to be settled down with my wife, kids, and puppers while working at a job that I love. I also hope to still be running and have started my coaching career.
Favorite food from Central Market
Being a runner, it probably sounds pretty cliché, but I love the pasta bar. The ice cream sundae bar this year has been top tier as well.
Bucket list
- Visit all 50 states and every continent
- Watch an Olympic track meet in person
- Run a marathon that qualifies for the Boston Marathon (and then run Boston)
- Go to a Super Bowl (preferably one that the Vikings go to, and win)
