Alex Slaymaker
Geneseo, Illinois
Class of 2027
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central College because I felt at home from my very first visit. I wasn’t sure if I wanted a larger or smaller school, but discovered that I enjoyed the feeling of togetherness on a small campus. I was excited for the many opportunities Central had to offer.
Favorite professor and why?
My favorite teacher is probably Professor Mills. Although I didn’t always enjoy having an 8am, I felt like I was able to learn so much. His ability and care to genuinely understand the topics he taught made waking up early worth it. I also appreciated how he always says “hello” in every passing and makes you feel cared about.
You’re majoring in mathematics and business because?
I chose to major in Mathematics and Business because I have always loved numbers. I have always been drawn to math because I like how there is usually a solution and plenty of rules to follow.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Aside from tennis I am a part of the acapella choir, mens volleyball club, and pickleball club.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
My favorite artists are Noah Kahan, Mt Joy, Declan McKenna, and Eminem.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Balancing my academic, athletic and social lives at Central has made me better at time management. I found that it is crucial in order to enjoy all of my campus opportunities.
Which of the four tennis majors is your favorite?
My favorite tennis major is the Australian Open because it takes place in January. This means I have free time to watch the tournament during winter break.
What is the oldest thing you own?
Coin Collection has to be my oldest item, because many of them date back a long time and I have been collecting them since I was young.
Pancheros or chipotle?
Chipotle because it was my family’s fast food pick growing up.
What is the weirdest nickname you’ve ever had?
With a last name like Slaymaker, my nickname is almost always “Slay - _____”.
Favorite TV Show
My favorite shows are Umbrella Academy and Criminal Minds.
What’s it like to play for Coach Ferrell?
I have enjoyed him a lot as a coach because I feel that he can be strict when he needs to be and also be very welcoming to talk to in other situations. He is always there to hold us accountable for our academic endeavors as well, which I really admire.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s men’s tennis team?
Through Central Tennis I was able to make lots of friends and have a great support system on campus. I also know that I will have memories for the rest of my life!
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
Have a steady income as well as a family. I also hope that I will have free time to be able to travel and maintain the hobbies I have.
Favorite food from Central Market
I don't have a favorite at the Central Market, but am usually drawn to the grill since I almost always like what is being served.
Bucket list
My biggest bucket list item is to visit every National Park in America. As of now, I have made it to 16!!
