Michael Turnley
Class of 2023
Manhattan, Kansas
Why did you choose Central?
I chose Central because I really loved all the people here every time I visited. Being at Central allowed me to continue playing tennis while getting a quality education with small class sizes from great professors. I also was able to overlap one year with my older brother Ben which was a great experience.
Favorite professor and why?
My favorite professors would have to go to both Dr. Olin and Dr. Witt. They are both very passionate and knowledgeable about history and have made classes super fun and interesting. The last two summers I have been able to work with Dr. Witt is doing research on Central College history for the Central Memory Project which has been an amazing experience.
You’re majoring in history with secondary education because?
Growing up I was always very interested in learning about history, people, and other cultures. I want to teach history because it lets me share my passion for history and make a difference on the next generation and I think learning history can be really helpful to any student no matter what they do in life.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I helped start and am the president of the Central Pickleball Club. It has been really fun to run our tournaments and see the growing number of students get interested in playing pickleball. Be on the lookout for another tournament this fall!
Who are your go-to musical artists?
A big 70s soft rock fan! My favorites are Elton John, The Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, and Chicago.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Playing a sport and being at Central has given me the opportunity to play with great teammates and make amazing friends. It has also kept me busy, so I have learned how to manage my time between school, tennis, friends, and fun better.
Dream job
My dream job would be getting to teach history while traveling the world. This would let me experience many different cultures and be connected to new history and students from different backgrounds than myself.
What’s it like having the opportunity to be a Belgian citizen?
Since my mom is from Belgium, I have the unique opportunity to be a dual citizen. Still having lots of family living in Belgium has given me the chance to travel there a few times and be exposed to the Belgian people, culture, food, and languages. Being connected to Belgium also helped grow my interest in learning about history growing up. Being Belgian was especially nice in 2018 because I still had a team to pull for in the World Cup when the US didn’t qualify.
Best part about growing up in Kansas?
I grew up in Manhattan and it was really cool to be so close to K-State and get the chance to attend tons of games growing up. Being a Chiefs fan wasn’t quite as fun growing up, but all the years of suffering have paid off for us the last few years.
Favorite TV Show
Survivor without a doubt! It's been going on 22 years and counting for good reason. It has everything you could want from a TV show. I’m still waiting for CBS to give me a shot to be the sole survivor, so I'll keep applying until they let me on.
What’s it like to play for Coach Ferrell?
Playing for Coach Ferrell has been really fun. He brings the energy to practice and is always looking out for all of his players.
What's your favorite part about being a member of the men’s tennis team at Central College?
The best part about playing tennis at Central is having great teammates. We all have a great relationship with each other and can push each other to get better every day.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
In ten years, I hope to be teaching at a good school, dominating my city on the pickleball court, and raising a family.
Favorite food from Central Market
Nothing beats the brisket quesadillas!
Bucket list
- Travel to every continent
- Visit all 50 states (Only Alaska and Hawaii to go)
- Visit every US National Park (35 of 63)
- Go to the World Cup
- Be on Survivor
