Week after week, the student-athletes of Morgan State University continue to excel, not only in competition but also in the classroom and beyond. The 'Beneath the Surface Spotlight' provides a glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary student-athletes, revealing the human stories behind their athletic achievements. These individuals are not only exceptional athletes but also outstanding scholars, leaders, and role models for generations to come.
Samuel Skinner
Cross Country
Class: Freshman
Hometown: New Market, Md.
Major: Business Administration
Samuel Skinner, known as 'Sam,' is a freshman at Morgan State University, where he is also a member of the Men's Cross Country team. Hailing from New Market, Maryland, Skinner attended Oakdale High School, where he distinguished himself as a standout athlete. He was a key member of the varsity track team for three years, culminating in his role as team captain for both indoor and outdoor seasons during his senior year.
Skinner's passion for running began in elementary school during field day events. This early interest blossomed into a serious commitment to the sport. Skinner grew up watching his family run cross country, so the sport was nothing new to him.
Although Skinner had several offers from other schools, he decided to attend Morgan to stay close to his family. He values the opportunity to compete at the Division 1 level and is enthusiastic about this new chapter in his athletic career. As he begins his collegiate journey, Skinner is committed to continuous improvement and is eager to build on his experiences, striving to become a better athlete and individual with each passing day.
Student life
- What is your major? - I am a business administration major. Coming into college I was unsure of what I wanted to major in, but the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to one day have my own business.
- What is some advice you would give to incoming freshmen? - My first day was pretty long with us having a 6:30 a.m practice. I had a pretty busy day with having four classes. I've enjoyed meeting the people in my classes and getting to know the professors.
- What is your favorite course? - Discovering your Student Identity
- What are some goals you have for your first year of college? - As an athlete I want to make all-conference and beat my high school personal record with a 1.56 in the 800 meter and 16.52 in the 5k. I also want to earn a 4.0 and keep my spot in the Honors College.
- What are some events you are ready to experience this year? - Homecoming is one I am ready for. I love to put on a fit. Also the DTLR concert was a great experience.
Sports
- What made you decide to run cross country? - My family ran cross country, so one day in middle school I signed up not knowing what I was getting myself into. Once I realized that I was good at it, this was something that I'm going to stick to.
- How was your first collegiate track meet? - It was a surreal experience. Being on that start line in blue and orange made me feel confident; I am here for a reason.
- What do you look forward to this upcoming season? - I am just ready to soak it all and step up my game.
- What are your pre-race rituals? - I'm an overthinker, so I take a nap. I go to sleep to clear my head.
- What is Sam doing when not at practice? Doing homework or outside Thurgood Marshall Hall playing volleyball.
Thurgood Marshall Hall
- What school are you looking forward to competing against? Norfolk State
Pop Culture
- Favorite team - Baltimore Ravens
- Dream superhero? - Flash
- Favorite Artist - Frank Ocean
- Favorite Celebrity - Danny Devito
- Favorite memory - My junior year when me and my friends went to the New Balance Nationals in Boston.
- Funniest teammate - Rushshane Fullerton
- Favorite Childhood Cartoon - Adventure Time
- Favorite Show - The Boys
- Favorite Social Media - Tiktok
- Interesting Nickname - Skinny Legend
- Favorite Home cooked meal? - My dad's jambalaya
Miscellaneous
- Most Prized possession? - I have a shelf that is made of surfboards.
- Best Advice - " Trust in Yourself"
- If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? - I would be taller
Sam and his Grandpa (Emory Lowry)
- Who are three people you would have dinner with? - My grandpa, Frank Ocean and whoever is the next president.
- What were your thoughts after meeting coach Hodge? - I thought he was a really fun guy, he's very personable. He is serious when it comes down to business and that is something that you need in track - someone that can be your friend but also push you at the same time.
2024 MSU Cross Country Team
Beneath the Surface full list here
🎙️ Khamani Anderson, MSU Athletics Communications intern contributed to this release.
🎥 Jake Bandoh, MSU Athletics Lead Production intern
FOLLOW MORGAN STATE ATHLETICS IN CYBERSPACE
There are many ways to keep up with MSU athletics online and on the go:
• Visit www.morganstatebears.com, the official web site of Bears athletics, for news, schedules, stats, bios and more.
• Follow us on social media:
Facebook: /MorganStateBears
Twitter: @MorganStBears
Instagram: /MorganStateBears
ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 140 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.
