Student-Athletes of the Month
*The Student-Athletes of the Month are selected on the basis of the all-around student-athlete...effort and excellence in academics, leadership, integrity, dedication to team, campus involvement, community service, and the ability to serve as role models for current and future VU students and student-athletes.
November 2007
Nick Cromydas - Men's Tennis
Junior, Major: Communication Studies
 Why did you choose to attend Vanderbilt?
I chose Vanderbilt because of the opportunity to study at one of most prestigious academic universities while competing in the highly regarded Southeastern Conference.
What are your career goals?
Truthfully, I am still in the process of figuring that out. I might like to try professional tennis for a while, but I think I will probably end up doing something involved with business; right now marketing really interests me.
What does it take to be academically successful at Vanderbilt?
It is all about time management. Between practice and school, the life of a student-athlete is extremely demanding. Planning ahead allows you to take care of your work, athletic needs and even spend some time relaxing.
How do you manage your demanding schedule?
I manage my schedule by writing all my assignments down and the dates they are due. By planning ahead, I can effectively manage my time to work around practice and other athletic events: A method taught to me and perfected by my teammate, Evan DuFaux.
What is your ritual before taking a test?
My ritual before taking a test involves very little sleep and a Rand omelet. I try not to stress out about the exam, and work in a calm and relaxing environment. My old teammate Jordan Magarik taught me the value of this approach to studying.
What is your favorite quote?
"Worrying is like a rocking chair...It gives you something to do, but it never gets you anywhere" --Van Wilder
Why Nick is a Student-Athlete of the Month . . .
Nikolas has made significant academic and athletic improvements. In the classroom, his hard work and dedication have helped him earn a spot on the SEC Academic Honor Roll over the past two years. His outstanding academic achievements have also contributed to the team’s overall success, helping the team earn ITA All-Academic honors. Last year, he played the number two seed, led the Dores to the second round of the NCAA Tournament and earned top 100 ranking in the Fila Collegiate Tennis Rankings. Nick is a class act and is always a pleasure to be around; his great sense of humor and positive outlook will take him far in life. I am confident he will continue to shine at Vanderbilt and I look forward to watching him grow as a student, athlete and human being. --Shawn Fagan
Chris Williams - Football
Senior, Major: Human and Organizational Development
 Why did you choose to attend Vanderbilt?
Because it's the total package. Where else could I go to have access to SEC athletics and Grade A academics that would be top of the line?
What are your career goals?
I want to play in the NFL and then open up my own successful business.
What does it take to be academically successful at Vanderbilt?
Time management and focus, class attendance, and a good relationship with
your professors also helps.
How do you manage your demanding schedule?
I prioritize everything and give everything as much time as needed. This year is a little more laid back than usual.
What is your ritual before taking a test?
I look over my notes. I try not to study too close to a test because if I study too close I start to forget stuff by cramming. I try to relax and not think about it too much.
What are your favorite quotes?
"It's whatever."
"Don't be afraid to fail."
Why Chris is a Student-Athlete of the Month . . .
Chris will graduate in December, having dabbled in Engineering, Arts & Science (French in particular), and finally excelling in Peabody's HOD Program. He is a team captain for football, and has grown into a leader both on and off the field. It has been a pleasure and privilege for me to get to know him over the past four years, and if I could think of a reason to keep him here (go to graduate school, Chris), I would. He, his family, his fiancee, are all wonderful people. I hate to see him go. But the future holds splendid opportunities for Chris, and I wish him "God speed" on his journey. --Elizabeth Wright, Director of Academic Support, Academic Counselor for Football & Women's Golf
Past Recipients...
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005
Academic Support for Student-Athletes | Vanderbilt University
Department of Student Athletics | 2601 Jess Neely Drive | Nashville, TN 37212
Phone (615) 343-0444 |
