Hometown: Sparland, IL
High School: Midland High School
Sports: Cross-Country, track and field, basketball
Clubs/Activities: FFA, RIVERS, History, Band, Student Council, National Honor Society
Background, studies and interests?
I come from the small town of Sparland, Illinois (population 400, but I think that might be generous), which is about 20 miles south of Peoria. I live on a farm with my parents Ted and Becky and my younger brother Tommy. I attended Midland High School, and graduated in May of 2007. Since I attended a small high school, I was able to participate in just about everything available to a high school student, and that really helped to shape my likes and dislikes early in my high school career. I was most active in cross-country and track and field, and I took great pride not only in my performances, but my also in ability to recruit others to the sport. I was also class president for all four years in high school, and also held various presidential and captain roles for other clubs. I love motivating others to succeed, so that is why I tried to assume leadership roles in most of my activities. I was named an Illinois State Scholar, a Wendy’s High School Heisman State Finalist, and made the Academic All-State Honorable Mention team.
Why Marquette?
It may sound very cliché, but from the beginning of the college selection process, I had a very strong feeling that I would somehow end up at Marquette. I had Marquette at the top of my list from day one, and it certainly helped that broadcast communications was offered as a major. The communications department is one of the best in the nation, so that was also a huge factor in my decision. I also chose Marquette for its Catholic identity, its perfect size, and because of the genuine goodness of the people here. I love how at Marquette, you are viewed as a person, not just a number. Even freshman year, unlike other schools I was looking at, your classes would not completely consist of enormous lectures (in fact, I have a one lab with only four other students).
Now that you’re here?
I have decided on a Broadcast and Electronic Communications major, and have tentatively decided on a History minor. I would eventually like to become a sports radio personality, and definitely call play-by-play for games. I have already become involved on-air for both the radio and television stations at Marquette (which is an amazing opportunity available to freshman here), and am a part of the College of Communications Student Council and Abbottsford Hall Council. I plan on joining the water-ski and wakeboard club for the spring semester, and also becoming involved in service projects and hopefully a retreat weekend or two. Milwaukee is quite different than Sparland, but I completely love it. There is so much to do and so many possibilities. I also make a point to attend a mass at St. Joan of Arc Chapel at least once a week (I highly recommend them). I am really looking forward to the rest of the year, and so grateful to be here at Marquette!
More information about the J. William and Mary Diederich Scholarship ...
