There's no doubt the NJAC boasts some extremely talented athletes but we want fans to know that there's more to these athletes than just their accomplishments on the field, court, etc. The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight highlights one student-athlete each Friday.
The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending October 17th comes from Rowan University. A Senior Cross Country runner from Yardville, NJ, Jonathan Sewnig is currently pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree.
Name:
Jonathan Sewnig
Instituion:
Rowan University
Year:
Senior
Sport:
Cross Country
Hometown, State:
Yardville, NJ
High School:
Notre Dame High School
Major:
Mechanical Engineering
What made you choose your institution?
The Engineering Program prestige in conjunction with low tuition prices
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete?
It upsets me to see so many talented high school athletes discontinue their athletic careers because they feel they don't have the time or ability. I wasn't going to be one of those athletes.
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
My first practice in the summer going into my freshman year of high school. It's funny looking back and remembering how anxious I was, when in reality there was nothing to be anxious about.
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
Breaking 15:00 in the 5k for the first time was an excellent moment for me. It was during the Penn Relays and my race time was 10:00 PM. My teammates were in the stands supporting me and we all went for the infamous cheesesteaks in Philadelphia afterwards.
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
I like to eat a plate of spaghetti preceded by a bowl of salad the night before a big race.
What famous athlete do you look up to and why?
I draw inspiration from Brian Sell. I frequently find myself exhausted from school, sport, and work and don't always feel I can get my feet to move for a run. He managed to compete for the USA in the marathon at the 2008 Olympics while maintaining a full time job at Home Depot as well as raising two children.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I would like to have a career somewhere in my field and I'd also like to still be running for a club team.
What is your favorite part about being an NJAC student-athlete?
I like the camaraderie between me and my opponents. I've grown close to many of the athletes from various schools in the NJAC.
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
I pride myself on being able to maintain my GPA at around a 3.80. Things may not come to me as naturally as some of the other students in my classes, but I've never felt inferior because I work as hard as possible to grasp the concepts presented to me.
Quick Facts about Jonathan:
Can't live without:
Water, Oxygen, sunlight
Favorite movie:
Superbad
Favorite class you've ever taken:
Thermal-Fluid Sciences
Favorite food:
Philly cheesesteak
Biggest fear:
Heights
Favorite musical artist:
Vampire Weekend