Randy Jimenez
Indianola, Iowa
Class of 2025
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central for a couple of reasons. The atmosphere was very welcoming and inviting, and it felt like a good fit for me. It also had a good running program, which gave me a good balance in pursuing my academic and athletic interests. I also chose Central on somewhat of an instinctual basis. It just felt like the right decision.
Favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor is my economics professor and advisor named Tuan Nguyen. One of the first classes I had was with him, and he quickly showed why he is a favorite on campus. His ability to joke in class, flexibility with sports, and interest in student activities make him an outstanding professor even among the many other high quality professors of Central. He also has a hilarious Twitter account that you should go check out if you have the chance.
You’re majoring in business management because?
I enjoy the field and the classes fit my mindset. It also allows for a lot of flexibility in the working world so I can explore different career paths even after I graduate.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I've been a participant of campus ministries here and there, and I've also helped run a cross country camp here during the summertime at Central. When I'm not doing that, you can probably find me in a lounge somewhere studying or playing ping pong with friends (of which I am a master).
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I listen to a wide variety of musical artists, but a couple of my personal favorites are artists called Stellar and The Score. They're songs feel very original and unique to them, which is something I look for in songs. They also have a faster tempo so I can listen to them when I'm running.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Attending and playing a sport at Central has had a strong positive impact on my life. It has given me great friends, new experiences, and challenged me to become a more well rounded, mature individual. Central has helped push me to my goals with a balanced and meaningful approach in both academics and athletics.
What was your dream job growing up?
My dream job growing up was to be an astronaut. I grew out of that phase as I got older and found out astronauts don't get steak in space.
If you were a famous wrestler, what would your stage name be?
My stage name if I was a famous wrestler would be "The Wizard" because my WWE moves would be magical.
Favorite TV Show
I've watched quite a few TV shows, and it's hard for me to pick a favorite. But I recent one that's definitely near the top of the list is Peaky Blinders (it probably could be the top of the list if I'm being real).
What’s it like to run for Coach Dunham?
Running for Coach Dunham is great. He's an amazing coach and pushes his athletes to strive for success both in sports and in life in general. He manages to maintain a relationship with every one of his athletes, and places more value on you as a person than the times you're running. Having only spent two years with him he's already become one of my mentors and I'm excited to see what the next couple of years bring.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central men’s cross country team?
My favorite part of being on the men's cross country team is the culture. You get to be with a lot of like minded individuals who share similar interests with you as a byproduct of being in the same sport. This makes for a lot of great teammates and friends that you quickly gain by being on the team. Being on the cross country team always provides a very close knit culture since we always spend so much time together, which I thoroughly enjoy.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
In 10 years I'm going to be graduated, so the plan is to have a successful career path in business thus far while building my personal life as well. Ideally, this looks like a house and a family of some kind. And of course I'll still be running and competing in my free moments.
Favorite food from Central Market
My favorite food at The Market is probably gonna be Mongolian Fridays that they have every week. It's a classic among the Central students and has never done me wrong. For me it stands right up there with other heavyweight favorites on campus like the legendary Fresh Cookie Tuesday.
Bucket list
Run a half marathon, marathon, and ultra marathon
Climb Mt. Everest
Visit another country
Learn the optimum amount of time to put Ramen noodles in the microwave
Become a master juggler
