A Student-Athlete's Perspective: Marcorus Garrett

Columbia junior running back Marcorus Garrett rushed his way to one of the best seasons any running back has ever had in a Lions' uniform. He finished the 2012 campaign with 957 rushing yards, the third-highest total in Columbia single-season history and most rushing yards in one season since 2001 when Jonathan Reese rushed for 967. He also became the first Lion since that 2001 season to eclipse 100 yards in four games in a single season.

1. When you think of the history and accomplishments of African-Americans in our country, what jumps out in your mind?
Garrett: Something that jumps out in my mind is courage. Great African-Americans like Martin Luther King and Muhammad Ali all went through some form of adversity, hardship, and opposition but still had the courage to speak their minds and fight for what they believed in.

2. What do you enjoy and what are the challenges in your current experiences as an African-American student-athlete on an Ivy League campus?
Garrett: One of the challenges that come along with going to an Ivy League school is the competition. It is extremely competitive to be admitted into an Ivy League institution and it carries over in the classroom.  

3. As you reflect on Black History month, talk about one person who has influenced your life and why?
Garrett: My parents have always been a major influence on me. They have always supported me with whatever I have done and given my two brothers and me everything we could ever ask for. I am grateful for having strong, hard working parents as my influences and number one supporters.

4. What do you feel is your role in being a leader or role model as African-American student-athlete on your campus and in your communities both at school and at home?
Garrett: My role in being an African-American athlete is doing well in the classroom and on the field along with leading my community through actions and hard work.  

5. Projecting forward, what is one thing you would like to achieve or be part of once you graduate to advance the African-American ideal for future generations?
Garrett: Upon my graduation I would like to be a role model and positive figure for my community and inspire youth to go for their dreams and not be afraid of failure.