Gwen Canney
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Class of 2027
Why did you choose Central?
I chose Central because it checked all the boxes I was hoping for in a college. It is affordable, the campus feels safe and genuinely beautiful, and the atmosphere just felt right when I first visited. The women’s wrestling team was also a huge reason. I immediately felt like it was a place where I could grow, compete, and be supported.
Favorite professor and why?
Profesor Korcheck. I can talk to her about literally anything, inside or outside of class. She is incredibly supportive and has helped me find resources to connect my Spanish major with pre-dental experiences and shadowing opportunities. She genuinely wants her students to succeed and you can feel that every time you talk to her.
You are majoring in ________ because?
I am majoring in Spanish and minoring in kinesiology and biology because I love understanding people both culturally and physically. Spanish connects me to communities and opens doors for future patients, while kinesiology and biology support my path toward dental school. Together they let me combine two things I love which are language and science.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I am the president of Zeta Upsilon sorority, I play trumpet in Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and I am part of TMK Programming Board. I like staying busy in the best way!
Who are your go-to musical artists?
HARRY STYLES!! He has been my comfort musician since I was little, so he is always at the top of my list. I even have three tattoos themed after him.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Central has given me so many amazing people and experiences. Wrestling has taken me on some really cool trips, and the team bonding is unmatched. When I was injured last year, I coached at Pella High School with connections through Matt Diehl and that ended up being one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. Being part of a sport here has definitely shaped who I am.
Favorite concert you have ever been to?
This is impossible because I have been to 26 concerts and I already have more on the schedule. If I have to choose, probably the second time I saw Tate McRae. We were front row and center and she kept looking over at me. It felt unreal!
What do you refuse to share?
Food!! I am a huge foodie and I get very protective of my plate haha.
What was your dream job as a kid? And what about now?
When I was little I wanted to be a vet. Now I hope to become an orthodontist!
If you could bring one fictional character to life, who would you choose and why?
Hermione Granger because I could use her brain power, organization skills, and magic to get through finals.
Favorite TV show
The Office. I have rewatched it at least five times from start to finish!
What is it like to wrestle for Coach Miranda?
He is super goofy, but he explains technique really well and knows how to make practices fun. He also cares about us as people, not just athletes, and always checks in outside of the wrestling room.
What is your favorite part about being a member of the Central women's wrestling team?
My favorite part is the sense of community. You always feel supported whether it is from teammates, coaches, professors, or friends. It really does feel like a second home.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
I hope I have lived abroad, traveled to a bunch of countries, started a family, attained more tattoos, and kept going to concerts. I also hope I am a practicing orthodontist by then.
Favorite food from Central Market.
The cook to order quesadillas. I get especially excited when they have the buffalo chicken ranch one!
Bucket list.
Attend a concert at Red Rocks, live in another country, and become completely fluent in Spanish.
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