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Georgia native and Parkview High School graduate Andrew Todd is a senior on the cross country team for Augusta University. This will be his fourth year competing for the Jaguars majoring in kinesiology and on track to graduate in May of 2025. 

His academic career won't be ending there as Todd has applied to continue his education as a physician assistant over the summer. 

"I have an interview in two weeks for AU, so I'm really excited. I'm not super nervous because it's a goal I've had for so long," said Todd. 

He believes the atmosphere at Augusta University is more like a family than anything else. He doesn't think he would be able to find this type of belonging at any other school. One of his favorite memories is from his time in Seattle with his team. 

"It's definitely one of my happiest memories. Riding the link scooters with my teammates around the city. We shut the city down with those," said Todd. 

When it comes to relaxing, he is never one to turn down taking a power nap. He also loves cuddling with his cat, Hazel, who is like his best friend. He also keeps a journal with his thoughts for the day and cook meals to eat with friends. 

While he'll be done competing for cross country after graduating, he won't be giving up running. It has been a part of who he is for 10 years. But he is excited for the opportunities that he'll be able to explore with more time. 

"Getting into things like hiking, rock climbing, swimming or playing the guitar. There are so many things that I want to do, and it'll also be cool, in grad school and just be able to devote more time to school," said Todd. 

He has enjoyed his time on the cross country team and has no regrets about how he'll end his career. He's excited for his last season with his AU teammates. 

"If my career ended right now, I would be 100% satisfied with my experience because at the end of the day, it really isn't about how you finish at nationals or what time you had running. It really is about the impact that you have on your teammates and the university and just the people in your circle. I've really felt that sense of belonging and camaraderie here, and that's that means the most to me." 

Todd has learned a lot from his time in the sport that he loves. He's gained friendships that are like family, become more confident in himself and learned the importance about balancing responsibilities. As a first-generation college student, he's happy about his path and excited for what the future may hold. 

Cross country schedule 

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