6 Alexis Palmer
How I got to BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY
Boise State was never on my radar. A college I hadn’t considered nor thought would become my home in a few short months, until my dad did some research and made the hard decision to convince me to go to college over 800 miles away. Finally having mustered the strength to let go of his little girl.
He’s only ever wanted the best for me. The cross country and track and field team at Boise is one of the best. He couldn’t deny the opportunity at hand. Tearful starbucks conversations consisting of talks of the future and my abilities as an athlete lead me to BSU. All because of my dad. My biggest supporter and best friend from the moment I was born. My dad ran for WSU in college and wanted me to have the same athletic experience. I originally wanted to go to MSU, but fate had other plans for me. I’ve moved a total of NINE TIMES throughout my 19years of being alive. That’s about ONCE every 2.1years! Not only has traveling given me great experiences, but it’s helped me realize what I value most in life: Friends, family, adventure, and spontaneity. I’ve never been one to take the easy route, let alone give up on what I’ve started. After being in Chicago for two years, I knew my home was Seattle. I convinced my parents to move back and we did. Not long after, my dad convinced me to run for Glacier Peak High School. The coach there was one of our long time family friends and had winning cross country and track teams. His girls team had 12 State Champion Titles in a row. This was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. So I ran for him. Throughout my four years I struggled a lot with mental health and bullying. But I never failed to see the positive of even the worst parts of my life. I ended up meeting my long term boyfriend who was set on going to MSU. I had loved the campus and outdoor opportunities the college provided. Yet, my passion, running, would be put on the backburner. Their team wasn’t good, and the coach was a little off.
From there, my dad pushed for Boise State. Their team was strong and constantly improving. He wanted me to seize the opportunity and grow as a runner. I knew that ultimately this was what was meant to be. Then COVID hit! What was supposed to be my best track season and earn me athletic scholarships, ended up being cancelled. Along with Prom, Graduation, all the Senior Events, and most importantly, my visit to BSU!Over the next few months I was riddled with the idea if I should even go to college this year. I thought that maybe I should take a gap year and travel the country in my EuroVan. But something didn’t settle right. I had this gut feeling, a feeling that although it was something new and a change (which scared me to death), I needed to push my boundaries. So I 
came to Boise State on my terms. I was recruited by the cross country and track coach and committed. Next thing I knew, I was leaving for Boise. Three long days later full of tears, anxiety, and adventure. I made it. Arriving two weeks early, I made sure I got a feel for Boise and had ample time to find my routine. Today, it marks almost 7 weeks I’ve been here. I couldn’t be happier. That’s how I got here. I’ve made the most of what many deem a difficult time full of stress and negativity. But it is what it is. Positivity is key. One has to be comfortable with the uncomfortable to reach success.
