Perhaps one of the best indicators of a true Gustie is their involvement at Gustavus beyond academics. Such is true with Senior Biology major Muresuk Mena. Whether he’s on the football field or in the classroom, Muresuk puts all of his energy into excelling at whatever he does.

“Suke’s determination and passion for the things he admires is unbelievable,” Junior Adwoa Afreh said.

Originally from Inver Grove Heights, Muresuk likes to spend his time in the music building or in the caf, hanging out with his friends and teammates. He chose to come to Gustavus because of its impeccable reputation for academics and the people he met while visiting campus, especially the football coaches.

Football has played a large role in Muresuk’s experience at Gustavus.

“Football at Gustavus is more than just a sport, it’s a lifestyle. Coming in I thought that I would have some fun, make some good friends, and that would be it. I have done that and more. My head coach always says we are servants, scholars and leaders, and there have been many times where our football team has used the game to educate and also serve others,” Muresuk said.

This year, Muresuk has a lot to celebrate as he is the senior quarterback on the team.

“Muresuk is a strong and trusted leader of our football team. He has worked extremely hard both on and off the field to represent his family, our Gustavus community and Gustie football with honor and class.  His leadership has been key to our team’s growth.  Muresuk is a respected leader who makes those around him better. His play on the field is a reflection of his character and his commitment to his teammates and coaches,” football Coach Peter Haugen said.

“Muresuk has proven to be a leader in the Gustavus community on and off the field. He challenges the team every day to make great decisions and [to] treat every play [like] it’s their last,” fellow teammate Andre Creighton said.

When he is not working hard on the field, Muresuk is also actively involved in the Pan African Student Organization (PASO). He first became a member of PASO because it reflects aspects of his own culture and he was interested in what the organization is about.

“I am so appreciative for having been his partner and Co-President for PASO for a year. He taught me how to lead by example, by doing so himself. I feel honoured to say that I worked closely with him to support an organisation we both care about so strongly. He was an inspiration throughout it all,” Junior Valentina Muraleedharan said.

His ability to balance a demanding football schedule in addition to his involvement in this organization exemplify his incredible work ethic.

“I have never really seen so many positive attributes in one individual when it comes to discipline, character, work ethic, his will and his personality. My favorite attribute about Suke that I admire most is his will to accomplish the goals he has set for himself and his will to stand against the things that he thinks will be detrimental to him and those he loves,” Junior Naga Rumicho said.

 

Muresuk has many aspirations for the future.

“Well, I would love to become a superhero, but that’s a backup plan. My main aspiration is to become a physician’s assistant or a pediatrician,” Muresuk said.

He also hopes to share his generosity and kind heart with the rest of the world by joining the Peace Corps.

“He is focused, whole-hearted, and cares about every person in his life. He gives his all to everything and everyone; 100 percent,” Muraleedharan said.