DeMarco Randall ’21
Ask DeMarco Randall ’21 the most important thing he’s gained by having the opportunity to receive a Saint John’s education and the junior from Denver doesn’t hesitate in the slightest before providing his answer.
“It’s made me feel like I have the ability to accomplish anything,” he said “There’s no limit to what I can dream about doing.”
“Coming here – and having the experiences I’ve been able to have – has given me so much confidence in my ability to adjust and adapt to any environment I happen to find myself in.”
Coming to SJU was indeed a step outside the comfort zone for the first-generation student who grew up in Denver with his mother and two sisters.
But the Arrupe Jesuit High School graduate said he fell in love with the campus and atmosphere when he was flown in for a visit.
“I was really liked the community feel,” said Randall, who is majoring in communication with a minor in political science.
“I liked how small it seemed. But it seemed big at the same time. There are so many opportunities here. I knew this was where I wanted to be.”
Yet Randall wasn’t sure his family could afford to send him. It was scholarships that helped make his dream a reality.
He receives the Kevin and Kathleen Eichler Scholarship, the Ted and Albena Micke Scholarship, the Don and Martha Rasure Cristo Rey Scholarship, and Catholic High School, Benedictine and Dean’s Scholarships as well.
“When I found out going here was going to be possible, it made me so happy,” he said. “It made me feel like somebody really believed in me. And that was inspiring.
“Knowing strangers were willing to give to help make this experience possible for me makes me want to give back as well when I get the opportunity in the future.”
Those who have encountered Randall at SJU believe his future is bright indeed.
“Curious is a great word to describe him,” said Nicole Hurt, an assistant professor of communications at SJU and the College of St. Benedict who has now had Randall in three different classes.
“He’s always engaged in what we’re doing in class. He always wants to learn and know more. I think DeMarco will excel in whatever career path he chooses because of that drive he has to excel and continue to grow.”
In addition to his classes, Randall has also worked at the Alcuin Library since his freshman year. He spent a semester helping out at a local Boys and Girls Club and plays intramural basketball.
He and a friend even hosted a sports talk show on campus radio during the final semester of his sophomore year.
But he said the most memorable moments of his SJU experience have been the simple ones.
“Just walking on the trails and being outdoors in the woods,” he said. “That’s something I didn’t experience growing up in the city. I’ve been able to go ice fishing. That’s something I never would have done if I hadn’t come here. Even just exploring a cornfield has been a big thing for me.
“Being at Saint John’s has opened the door to a lot of new things.”