Mason Simmons
Springield, Ill.
Class of 2028
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central because I really enjoyed talking to the coaches on the soccer team. They made the recruiting process simple. I also loved the town of Pella when I visited, and Pella is a perfect distance from my hometown.
Favorite professor and why?
I think my favorite professor would probably be Insko because he makes class interactive and thought provoking. I do not do well with long lectures where you have to just listen for a long time, so Insko's classes are very enjoyable. It is also a bonus that he played college soccer.
You’re majoring in business management because?
I had no idea what I wanted to do coming into college and I enjoyed taking accounting and math classes in high school.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
On campus I am an Intervarsity student leader and also frequently attend FCA and the Calm.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I listen to a broad range of music but my most listened to artists on Spotify are Hulvey, Forrest Frank, and Luke combs.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Attending Central and playing a sport has impacted my life in a sense that I have really learned to manage my time. From going to practice getting homework done to prioritizing time for myself and with friends, I must be very intentional with my time.
Is a hot dog a sandwich?
I would say technically it could be considered a sandwich because it has a filling enclosed on both sides but culturally, I would say no.
My movie go to is a bucket of popcorn with Buncha Crunch in it and either water or root beer to drink.
Favorite international soccer team?
Obviously, the United States is my favorite national team, but they only get my hopes up just to send them crashing down.
What are three things you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy golfing, playing pickleball, and just spending time with friends. I am extroverted and enjoy spending time with others, whether with my teammates or other friends on campus.
What’s it like to compete for Coach Laidlaw?
Coach Laidlaw instills a competitive mentality in the team while ensuring that we keep a sportsmanlike mentality in doing so. This allows us to compete at a high level while also mainting a sense of morals and representing Central well.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s men’s soccer team?
We have a really good group of guys that all gel really well. Not only do we spend a lot of time together on the field, but we also spend a lot of time together outside of soccer. I think this gives us an advantage on the field because I know no matter what the guys will have my back.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
Based on my major I would say either financial advising or financial analysis, but I am also considering something in the field of ministry. I think it would be super cool to buy a van and travel around the country too, but I'm not sure how realistic that is.
Favorite food from Central Market
I think the best thing about the market is the Brisket Quesadilla. The only problem is that we only get it once a semester.
Bucket list
I think the top thing on my bucket list would be to go outside the United States. I don't really care where, but I think Italy would be pretty awesome. I also would love to take a trip north to go fishing maybe in Canada.
