When searching for someone to fill the sandals of last year’s Spartan, the university needed to look no further than Nicholas Barron, a second-year student studying mathematics and physics. Math, physics and mascot duties seem like an odd combination to you? Not for this Pittsburgh native, who also plays club and sand volleyball in his spare time. Find out what else interests the face of the Spartans, as this fall sports season kicks into gear.
1. What’s on your iPod?
I like music that gets me pumped. I listen to everything from hardcore to top 40, pop punk to dubstep. I like bands or artists that bring a unique sound to the table. Something has to stick out to get my attention. Bands like Punchline, Bayside, Stick to Your Guns, Skrillex, Flux Pavilion and Polar Bear Club have been my favorites lately.
2. What’s your favorite spot in Cleveland and why?
My favorite spot in Cleveland is the Wade Lagoon in the evening. More often than not, I’ll walk around the water and hear a student practicing some kind of instrument by the water. I’ve heard a violinist and flautist, to name a few.
3. If you could only take three books with you to a deserted island, what would you take?
I would take Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger, and Godel Escher Bach by Douglas Hofstadter.
4. What one word would you use to describe yourself, and what one word would your friends use to describe you?
I would describe myself as disciplined, and my friends would say that I’m intense.
5. What’s your favorite thing about Case Western Reserve University?
My favorite thing about CWRU is the people. We have such a diverse student body that making friends with the same interests was easier than I expected. Upon arriving here last fall, my residence hall floor became like a family, and my fraternity just expanded on that family. I find myself not wanting to go home, and my summer stay at Case Western Reserve was a true testament to this.