Originally from Tillamook, Nathan McRae chose to attend Oregon State University not only because of its proximity to home, but also because he felt the environment would allow him to pursue his interests in academics and beyond. Coming from an athletic family instilled a love of sports in McRae at a young age. Some of his fondest childhood memories include spending hours with his dad shooting hoops in front of their house.

This childhood hobby grew into an even bigger passion for fitness and athletics. In middle school he recalls going to watch the high school basketball games. As he watched everyone in the stands going wild as the players scored, he knew that he wanted to experience that firsthand. Fast forward to his senior year of high school. It’s his last game; he steals the ball in the last fifteen seconds, and dunks it with ten seconds left on the clock. The crowd went wild.

A particular aspect of basketball that he is passionate about is dunking. Having participated in high jump in high school, it was only natural that he combined these skills with his love of basketball.

He continues to combine his passions he at OSU, dedicating himself to not only academics, but also fitness. Despite his rigorous course load as a mechanical engineering major, he makes sure to time out carve for fitness “There’s always a time in my day where I go to the gym, no matter how busy I am. Even if it’s just to shoot a few hoops.”

He believes that this is an essential part of his overall growth because it provides him with chance to challenge himself outside of academics.

“It’s nice to have goals and something to strive for outside of what you feel obligated to do.” In addition to contributing to his personal growth, staying fit has also been key in helping him build relationships. “ Honestly, I just meet people in classes, but I actually get to know them at the gym.”

For him, finding out that he has something in common with others and getting the chance to interact with people in new setting helps him feel more connected to his classmates and the general community.

Maintaining his passions is something he considers a necessary part of staying balanced while at Oregon State University. Staying fit provides him with an outlet to let off steam and gives him an emotional boost when he’s feeling stressed out about school or other aspects of his life. In addition to playing basketball, he also loves to lift weights and work on his dunking skills to stay in shape.

McRae couldn’t imagine life any other way, “What I go to school for is my interest, but fitness is my passion.” Having the chance to not only learn alongside others but also challenge and work with them outside of academics has been one of his favorite aspects of college life. He hopes that his dedication to his varied interests and passions continue to help him grow as an individual throughout various aspects of his life.