Tanner Hoops | Staff Writer

Ben Sampson is a junior accounting major at Buena Vista University (BVU), a member of both the men’s cross country and track and field teams.

Sampson, a native of Cherokee, Iowa, has always thought of BVU as a home away from home.

“I chose to come here because I loved the campus,” Sampson said. “I felt at home whenever I visited campus.”

Sampson has worked with head cross country and track and field coach, Ryan Schroeder, since he first arrived here at BVU.

“Ben is an extremely hard worker. At the end of the day, you know he’s going to give it his best,” Schroeder said. “Ben has been our most improved runner from last year. He made some big strides last track season and that’s carried over through the summer and now into cross country season. With a small guys team, it’s been great to see Sampson set up and really show his talent.”

Sampson, who lettered in football and track in high school, said that his decision to attend BVU also had an influence from home.

“BV sort of runs in the family because my mom and brother are both BV graduates,” Sampson said.

When looking back on his time at Buena Vista, Sampson reflects on the highlights of his career.

“On the track, seeing my hard work and commitment to the sport pay off as I have been and hope to continue to set new personal records and become more competitive in the conference,” Sampson said.

Beyond the track, one of the reasons students love their schools and BVU in particular is the long lasting friendships they make and Sampson is no exception.

“Off of the track my highlight has been making the friendships at BV that I know will last forever,” Sampson said.

Sampson’s time as a Beaver has been well spent: making strides on the track and making new friends off of it. And the best part about it is that he’s still got another full year of it to go.

Photo by Taylor Staab