Nick Henning

What is your major and why did you choose it? 

I am a double major in political science and business management. I find political science extremely interesting and as an aspiring law enforcement officer, I think understanding the political system will help me better navigate my career. Business management, on the other hand, is something that I have always been passionate about. I love investing in the stock market and have done so ever since I turned 18. The combination of the classes I had to take for both majors has made me a more conscious person and a better communicator. 

Why did you choose law enforcement as your career path?

I think everyone has their place in this world. For me, it’s about helping people and giving back to the community. Moreover, I have never wanted an office job. I love being outside and talking to people. Being able to protect the community and society that have given me so much is something I look forward to doing in the future. 

What sport do you play and why? 

I have been a baseball player since I was five years old. In addition, I played football and basketball until I was in high school. I chose to focus on baseball because I love the technicalities and thinking that go into playing the sport. It never fails to challenge me and even if you fail three out of 10 times, you can still be an excellent player. That is what I like most about Knox baseball as well—the opportunity to excel by learning from mistakes. I enjoyed meeting a few members of the team while visiting, and I knew I could be a better player and person here. I was right. I have been able to grow and learn a great deal in the time I have spent at Knox.

How do you manage to play baseball and keep up with your academic work? 

This is where time management and planning play a huge role in ensuring I can keep up with my workload. Every Sunday I look at my schedule for the week and plan out where I can fit different things into my calendar. I try to get as much done on the weekend as I can for the next week. I take more difficult classes in the fall, which is our off-season. This helps me focus more on the academic side of college. Then in the spring, which is when we have games and practice six days out of the week, I take classes I am more familiar with so that I don’t get too overwhelmed. 

What is something that you have learned from college? 

I have learned that I am self-sufficient and capable of dealing with various situations that could arise in both my academic and personal lives. I have realized that there are always going to be challenges, both big and small, but it is up to me to chase after what’s most important. It’s okay to ask for help and find comfort with friends and family. Communication is also extremely important because it helps me stay connected to those I love. I like calling home, talking about my day, and listening to them. It just provides a sense of security for me. Being a part of Phi Gamma Delta has helped me find a community at Knox. We are always there for each other. I know that I can count on them for anything, be it help with homework or having someone to talk to. 

What is some advice you would give to other students? 

Don’t be afraid to fail. It is crucial to keep an open mind and embrace the opportunities that college has to offer. Test your limits. Step outside your comfort zone. It is the only way you can discover the best version of yourself.