Contact: Lou Groce, Director of Media and Information, 920-229-8157

GRINNELL, Iowa – The Midwest Conference (MWC) Student-Athlete Spotlight is a weekly series that will highlight and promote MWC student-athletes on and off the playing field.  This week's student-athlete is Knox College sprinter Malik Hamilton.

Hamilton currently ranks fourth in the conference in the 60-meter dash (7.17), 14^th in the 200-meter dash (23.76) and 10^th in the 400-meter dash (53.65).  Hamilton also competes on the Prairie Fire's 4x400-meter relay that has the top time in the conference.  We caught up with the sophomore chemistry major from Chicago, Ill. to gain some insight on his experiences as a student-athlete at Knox. 

Favorite sports team/teams? 
Patriots, Buckeyes, and whatever team LeBron James plays for. 

Favorite movie? 
Scary Movie 2

Favorite musical artist? 
Drake, Eminem, J Cole

Favorite vacation? 
I've only been on two vacations, and both times got sick from it. So my favorite vacation is probably going to state finals for track during my sophomore year in high school. I was able to experience the intensity of the meet ad well as have fun with my teammates. We had ping pong tournaments with other teams, it was just really fun.

What attracted you to Knox College? 
 I was extremely attracted to the family-type atmosphere displayed during my visit

What's your favorite class you've taken so far? 
My freshman year preceptorial class is probably my favorite. It opened my mind to new ideas about space and humanity in general

Are you involved in any other clubs/organizations on campus other than athletics? If so, what is your role with them? 
I am in the TRIO program, McNair program, and a COAST scholar

Are you involved in any community service projects/organizations? 
I frequently volunteer for blessings in a backpack and am currently fundraising for the Polar Plunge

What are you hoping to do with your degree post-graduation? 
 I am currently undecided on what I want to do post graduation. One option is going to PA school to become a physician assistant, or getting my PhD in chemistry and becoming a professor

What do you like most about being a student-athlete at Knox College? 
While most people don't like this, I like the tight schedule that comes with being a student-athlete. It keeps me in check with the free time that is given. Majority of my free time is spent doing homework or studying. I feel like that helps me both as an athlete and student because of the lack of tension I get during a stressful time compared to other people

What has been your most memorable moment as a student-athlete so far in your college career? 
My most memorable memory as a student-athlete was my entire winter term as a first year student. I started off struggling with managing the tight schedule and stressed out easily. I was able to relax and accept the path I was given. This resulting in finishing the term off powerfully as a student-athlete. I ended the term in good academic standings. I was able to break a record in track, with my team, and receive two medals during conference.