Junior
West Des Moines, Iowa
Why Central?
I wanted to be a part of a learning environment where it felt like family. This family atmosphere was amplified by the genuine sincerity of everyone on campus during my visits. I knew that Central College provided a wide variety of opportunities; athletics, study abroad, FCA, and campus activities that I could get actively involved. For me, it has been the ideal place to develop lasting relationships.
Favorite professor and why?
This is a tough one. I would say Viktor Martisovits and Alexey Pronin. Viktor has to have some sort of record for hours worked with the sun down. He is always in his office, even after Student Senate meetings adjourn around 10:00 pm. They are both great role models for what it means to be a dedicated student, and they contain an outmatched passion for science and learning. They always have a smile on their faces. To actually get people enthusiastic about physics is a true gift.
In your iPod?
Just about anything you can think of. I have a little bit of everything, and have quite the variety. But my “go to” would definitely be Zac Brown Band. They have the right blend of country, rock, and Americana musical style that I like.
You’re majoring in physics because?
Part of me wanted to do something that was out of my comfort zone. The other part of me knew I needed a skill to become employable. I enjoyed my physics classes in high school, and have always been interested in some sort of engineering. Physics is a good foundation for a lot of different careers in the medical related field. By developing necessary problem-solving skills, I wanted to give myself a wide variety of career options. (Sadly, I didn’t fully understand just how much math I was required to take!)
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Besides the great US of A, I would love to live somewhere in the Scottish Highlands. My Motherland. While studying abroad in Northern Wales, I had the opportunity to visit Edinburgh, Scotland and absolutely loved it. The rolling, green countryside is truly mesmerizing.
The one thing your brother Pat will never be better than you at
I own him in Super Smash Bros. That’s about it. Our family calls him “The Natural” for a reason. Just about anything he picks up, he masters. From ping-pong to duck hunting, playing the ukulele or riding a skateboard, he can do just about anything he wants. (I’d like to think I could still take him when it mattered. Although it’s been awhile since we last threw down.)
Describe your dream road trip
My grandparents live in Orlando. So just about every year growing up, we spent two days driving to the Sunshine State. Nothing beats being packed in a van with six people (and the family dog) for 24 hours; each way. Otherwise, it would be fun to travel to the Grand Canyon in a big camper someday.
If you were the host of a late night talk show, who would be your first guest?
Drew Brees. He is a living testament to his faith, family, and his team. He overcame several injuries, and his small physical stature to become Super Bowl MVP.
Tougher job: Starting quarterback or Student Senate Leader
Quarterback. I think few people truly appreciate how difficult it is to complete a pass, in real time play. Luckily for me, we have a wide range of supporting cast members from coaches to teammates who help alleviate some of the burden and make my job easier. We have an outstanding offensive line, weapons at every position, and a lockdown defense that likes to put the ball back into my hands. A lot of time is needed for both, but I think there is more pressure on your performance as a quarterback than as a Student Senate Leader. I enjoy both roles, and am grateful to be surrounded by so many individuals who demand the best out of me -- and keep me lifted up.
If you won the lottery, what's the first thing you would do?
I’ve never really thought too much about this one. I’d like to think I would make a gift to some sort of outreach mission, and then put some money somewhere safe, so I could only use so much of it at once. After paying off my student loans, I would probably take my extended family, the entire football team, and my closest friends to an all-inclusive beach resort someplace warm.
Favorite TV Show
I don’t watch a lot of TV, but I did really get into Sons of Anarchy. I started the series on Netflix, right before finals last year. (It turned out to be one of the bigger mistakes I’ve made while here at Central.)
The one thing people don’t know about Coach Maiuri
He is actually a very talented rapper.
Why do you love Central football?
Central has a deep-rooted tradition with very proud alums that go beyond win-loss records. It is one of the bigger reasons I chose Central College. I have made deep relationships and lasting memories that I will always cherish, and I am grateful for every chance I get to experience the greatest game ever created. I love Central football because I still get to feel the emotions of joy, heartache, and a greater purpose. There is something really special about grinding it out for a shared, common goal with a group of friends that you truly care about. Because, before you know it, it will all be over.
“Ten years from now I’ll...”
Hopefully, I’ll be running my own dental practice in the Des Moines area, with a smoking hot, accountant of a wife. I will spend my weekends in the fall sitting on the deck with a dram of single malt scotch and a fat cigar watching my three sons fly around the backyard. And as the leaves begin to change, and the crisp autumn breeze cuts through an old sweatshirt -- I’ll be reminded of the practices in late October, and the endless memories of my time here at Central.
Favorite food from Central Market
I love fresh cookie Tuesday, but the BBQ brisket has got be near the top.
Bucket list
I wouldn’t mind trying to skydive once before I die. My cousins from Arkansas have offered to take me pig hunting when my schedule frees up, and I have yet to bag a big buck. It would be fun to be able to learn how to drive and shoot a real, military tank at some point too.
