Business Administration
Alexandria, VA

On balancing books and basketball:
My experience at Barton has been a good one. It's definitely not a place where you can skate by. And with basketball on top of that, you have to have the right discipline. You have an obligation to your classes and the team. But the teachers understand how demanding our schedule is. If you keep up your end of the bargain and get your work done, they're willing to work with you.

On engaged learning and meeting people:
Human Resource Management was a hands-on class. The professor brought in all these guest speakers, so we were meeting people from different professional backgrounds. They taught us a lot about managing people in the real world. For my Business Management class, I attended an event for the International Association of Administrative Professionals we had on campus. It gave me a chance to meet new people and find opportunities. Being able to network like that is a key to being successful.

On engaged learning and scaring people:
One of the other ways I've gotten engaged is through community service. I've had so many different experiences. They've all been equally rewarding, and they've really broadened my understanding of what community service is. My Business Communications class required 10 hours of service, so I helped the Wilson Police Department put on a haunted house. They had me dress up with a mask and everything and jump out at people. Now, I'm 6'6" -- I think I scared people more than they were expecting!

On experiencing college on a first-name basis:
My main reason for coming to Barton was basketball, but since I've been here, I've grown to really appreciate the people and the atmosphere. It's not just about basketball. I love the fact that Barton is such a close community and that everybody knows each other. Even the president knows you. I've made friends I'll have for life. College life can be challenging, but a lot depends on the environment you're in. And Barton was the best environment for me.

Brian is the starting center for Barton's national championship-winning basketball team.