Where did you go to high school and what sports did you play? What was your position? I attended St. Teresa. At St. Teresa, I played basketball and ran track. For basketball, my position was the point guard. When I ran track, I competed in the 400m, Long Jump, and Triple Jump.
What do you believe has led to your success in high school? The will to work hard. I was always a hard worker. I knew that if I put the work in to be the best, I would reap the rewards.
What college are you currently enrolled at? I am currently enrolled at Westminster College; located in Fulton, Missouri.
What is your major? My major is Business Administration
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities (not sports related)? Yes, I am currently a member of the Campus Activity Board. We plan events for the students throughout the school year to help make their college experience enjoyable.
What led you to that particular institution? My previous school, which was MacMurray College closed down. My old head coach recommended that I come take a visit to the school. I liked what the school had to offer, which led to me enrolling at Westminster.
What is something they don’t tell you about college that you wish you had known? Time management is key. I am busy all of the time whether I’m in class or working out. Which leaves for little free time in my schedule. I usually have to plan my day thoroughly to make sure I accomplish all of my daily tasks.
What was the biggest adjustment in transitioning from high school to college? I would say getting used to being busy all of the time. I wasn’t really that busy in high school, but once I got to college, I’m always doing something.
Are you currently involved in any athletics? Yes, I am currently on the Men’s Basketball team here.
Do you plan to continue pursuing a sports career after college? After I finish my collegiate career, I plan on entering the workforce.
If you could tell high school athletes anything, what would it be? Enjoy high school while you can. I remember people telling me that phrase, which led to me never taking any moment I had in high school for granted. I made sure to enjoy every moment I had. High school is a time where you can play sports with your friends, win championships for your hometown, and just have fun. Don’t take it for granted.
What advice do you have for kids looking to go to the next level or pro? You have to work hard. Reaching the next level is not easy, and not everybody makes it. If you want to reach that level, you have to be willing to do the things other people aren’t doing. It may consist of working out before school or getting in an extra workout.
Do you have aspirations about playing professional sports? If not, what career are you pursuing? No, I plan on entering the business world. I don’t really have an idea of what specific field I want to work in the business. As of right now, I’m keeping my options open.
What is your biggest takeaway from college thus far? My biggest takeaway from college is making connections. It’s amazing to see the different ethnic backgrounds, of people that come from across the world. I made sure to build connections because I know it may help me later in life.
What advice do you have for high school seniors as they start to look towards their future in college? Never give up. You will face hard times in college, whether it’s staying up late studying for an exam or writing a ten-page paper. These types of things will push you mentally, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Always remember the end goal.
Have you faced any adversity in high school or college that has helped make you stronger?
Most definitely! I would say last year really challenged me, but it helped me grow. Being a transfer was hard. I lost my GPA status that I had at my old school which was a 3.5. I was introduced to a new set of teammates, and I was a stranger on a new campus. Also, like high school, junior year was my hardest year academically. It definitely took a toll on me mentally but one day I sat down and thought to myself that I am destined for greatness. Once I instilled that thought in my brain, it allowed me to finish the year out strong and enter my senior year with high confidence.
Anything else you would like to add? I would say never forget where you come from. People always down Decatur, but Decatur actually has hidden gems. Our job as adults, is to create pathways for kids to become successful; not instill the idea in these kids that no good ever comes from Decatur. Let’s help elevate our city, not tear it down.
