“To me, football’s kind of like the whole reason why I get up… I love it.” says freshmen Jay Johnson, a football player here at Olivet Nazarene University.
This is the motivation that gets Johnson up in the dull hours of the early morning. Being a football player in college is hard work. Not only does it call for a necessary balance between academics and extracurriculars, it also takes a strong resolve with a can-do attitude. It requires early hours for long, strenuous practices that stretch the players to their limits. But that doesn’t stop Johnson from having an upbeat attitude and a good time when it comes to practice.
Johnson hails from the humble little town of Stilton Wisconsin, 30 minutes outside of the state capital, Madison. So far, Johnson has had a wonderful time here on campus.
“I’ve made a lot of friends here, especially on the football team,” said Johnson.
Because it’s his first year on the team, Johnson redshirted, meaning that he sat the bench. However, that has not stopped him from getting the most out of his experience here. Over the course of the season, Johnson was able to record each of the games for the team. This allowed him to put to work all of the skills that he’s learned in the classroom. Johnson is very proud of his team an it’s evident that he enjoys his time with them.
“Season didn’t end how we wanted to, but all things considered, we still did really good” said Johnson in regards to his overall feelings towards te football season. Football – Olivet Nazarene University
Johnson is a resident of Nesbitt, a building with halls full of camaraderie and fun times. He describes his experience there in a very positive light. “Sometimes we’ll just play music on the speaker… One time, somebody brought out their guitar, so we just went out, sang, and just had a good time.” Residence Halls | Olivet Nazarene University
Johnson’s major is multimedia communication. His concentration is film studies right now, but he is considering switching to TV/Video. He really loves the process of building, especially in graphic design. Johnson got his start designing logos over Covid, in 2021. However, this isn’t to say that he doesn’t have a knack for other forms of multimedia. “I’ve always loved cameras. I like telling stories that I can create in my head,” Johnson said.
He chose Olivet due to his football scholarship, a wise decision on his part. However, Johnson is no stranger to Olivet. He’s been coming here since he was a freshman in high school for various district and field events such as Celebrate Life. He’s taken to his classes very well, he enjoys the day to day assignments and projects. He especially likes Prof. Utter’s class, Introduction to Broadcasting. This is because he thinks Utter is a great guy and really enjoys learning from him. Spark HD3, WONU-HD3 89.7 FM, Bourbonnais, IL | Free Internet Radio | TuneIn
When Johnson isn’t on campus hanging out with his friends, going to class, or playing football, he’s at home with his family, his girlfriend, and his dogs.
As far as plan for after college, Johnson said that “My goal is to launch my business.”
He wants to be a freelance photographer and designer for specific event. Whether it be a sports game or a weddings, Johnson is willing to work hard at his job. He says that ultimately, the goal is to move out to Arizona or California, a much warmer climate than his native Wisconsin.
Wherever the future leads Johnson, he’s going to take his talent and creativity with him.
