Sept. 10, 2015
by Logan Mayo, Strategic Communications Student Assistant
University Park, PA. - Two-time All-American Morgan McIntosh (Santa Ana, CA.) enters his senior year as a Nittany Lion this fall. Even though he is a top contender at 197 this season, he is not just thinking about the championship title, he is thinking about earning his degree in Criminology as well.
In 2011-12, the California native began his college career in Happy Valley. As a newcomer to the East Coast, McIntosh was not only unsure about how he would adapt 3000 miles from home, but also about what he wanted to study. A lot of time and thought was put into deciding what exactly he wanted to do. He knew that he wanted to win conference and national titles, but what did he want to pursue a career in once he was off of the mat?
"At first, I had no idea what I wanted to study. My dad was the one that helped me decide on a major, one that I would actually enjoy," said McIntosh. "I chose to study Criminology because I have always had an interest in Law Enforcement. This field of study has a lot of options and different directions that I could go once I graduate in the spring."
The Department of Sociology and Criminology at Penn State is ranked among the top ten in this particular field of study. The curriculum offers knowledgeable courses based on crime and justice, social research methods, and how it all relates back to human behavior, social situations and the government.
"I am still not exactly sure what I want to do post graduation, but I am considering a few different career paths including the Fire and Police Department," said McIntosh. "But, I definitely plan on wrestling for some time after I graduate."
Being a starter on one of the best wrestling teams in the country brings on a lot of responsibility. With the daily practices, lifts, and traveling to away meets, school also has to be a top priority. A lot of athletes throughout the country cannot handle the workload or find the proper way to balance it all, but McIntosh has made it clear that he does not allow himself to stress.
With numerous study halls provided in Rec Hall, understanding professors, advisors and tutors, Penn State is the perfect fit for its student-athletes. McIntosh mentioned that his coaches have also been extremely supportive to not only him, but also his entire team when it comes to their academics.
"It is a lot to handle sometimes but I have never felt pressured. I feel that it is almost easier when you have a lot to do because it makes it less stressful to prioritize and get everything done by the time is has to be completed," said McIntosh. "I try to get as much of my work done as I can in between my classes and lunch breaks so that once I am done with practice, I can use my evenings to relax. Depending on my workload, I put in any extra time when it is needed."
The 197-pound Nittany Lion has made the best of his college career thus far. Doing well in his classes and on the wrestling mat, McIntosh has made his team and family very proud. As his last year at Penn State begins, McIntosh is not yet ready to begin reminiscing about his Nittany Lion career. "I have most definitely enjoyed my past four years here," said McIntosh. With no regrets, the Nittany Lion All-American enters his final season in Happy Valley looking to finish on the top of the podium in Madison Square Garden.