Football Student-Athlete Spotlight: Jaylen Harrell
11/9/2023 10:00:00 AM | Football
Balancing life as a student-athlete at the University of Michigan is no easy task. In this series, U-M football players who are getting their business done on the field and in the classroom are spotlighted as a credit to their work ethic and organization. Get to know them better as students by learning what subjects, experiences, teachers, professors, and lessons have impacted them most during their academic careers in this Student-Athlete Spotlight Series.
Q. As you consider your time remaining as a student-athlete at the University of Michigan, what do you want your legacy to be off the field and on?
Jaylen Harrell: Once my time is done here at the University of Michigan, I want to be known as more than just a football player on the field. I want to be remembered for my actions off the field -- how I treated my classmates, my professors and my peers. I want to make a positive difference on this campus. If I had to be remembered by one word, I'd want that word to be game-changer.
Q. Outside of your athletic achievements, what are you most proud of during your time at the University?
JH: I'm proud of the bonds and friendships that I've made not only with my teammates but also with others outside of the program. My peers have played a huge role in my Michigan experience. They have helped me stay grounded and encouraged me to find my passions outside of football. Most importantly, they have been a huge support system for me.
Q. What has been the important skill that you have developed in your time at Michigan and in achieving your academic goals?
JH: I'd have to say that the most important skill I have developed while at Michigan is to take it day by day, learning to live in the moment. I wake up each day, reminding myself that it's a new day, a new opportunity. I never try to look too far ahead or worry about what's coming next. Instead, I focus on the immediate hours to come and attack whatever is directly in front of me.
Q. What is your biggest goal for the academic year?
JH: Like in past years, a big goal of mine is to qualify for Academic All-Big Ten, which I have been able to do twice. However, an even larger goal of mine this year is to graduate and obtain a Michigan degree in three-and-a-half years. Graduating from the University of Michigan will be an accomplishment I will never forget and one I'm certain will make my entire family proud.
Q. What's some advice you would give an incoming freshman, or someone interested in attending the University of Michigan?
JH: Work your hardest, control what you can control, and be in the moment. Take advantage of your time at the University of Michigan; it's one of the best universities in the world for a reason. Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Ask questions to your professors, build genuine relationships with your peers, and be kind to all those around you. Also, remember to stay organized and put things on the calendar. Lastly, ask for help when you need it. Go to the Academic Center or make appointments with your advisors.
Q. What was the best school field trip you ever went on?
JH: That one is easy. My eighth-grade school field trip to Washington, D.C. I feel like anyone who had the opportunity to go on this trip in middle school had a similar, almost iconic experience. I still remember just how exciting it was to walk around with my friends and soak in some of the sites that define US history. It was one of those trips where you don't realize the impact it had on you until you look back on it. It's safe to say lots of laughs were had and lots of memories were made.
Q. What is your favorite memory from elementary or middle school?
JH: My favorite memory from elementary school was when I first played tackle football when I was six or seven years old. I can still feel the butterflies I had in my stomach before I ran out during my first game. Although I was nervous, I remember feeling both strong and excited. After I got my first hit, I immediately got goosebumps, thinking, 'I could get used to this.' From that moment on, putting on the pads became a craving of mine. Football has been and always will be, the foundation of my identity.
Q. Are you involved in any extracurricular clubs or leadership activities?
JH: Because of football and the extra time I put into the game outside of practice, I don't have enough free time to fully commit to any formal clubs. However, I do value helping others and giving back to my community, so I try to get involved in as many charity and development programs as possible. To this day, one of my favorite events from any program I've ever participated in was the Father's Day Youth Football Camp this past year. Helping younger kids, alongside their fathers, learn the game of football and develop a passion for the sport was support impactful. It's a unique feeling to know that your presence and story can serve as an inspiration to younger generations. I was once in their shoes, looking up to the older guys who would come back to coach at my middle school, so I tried to show them the skills that helped me the most. At the end of the day, my main goal is to spread as much of my wisdom and joy as possible.
Q. In addition to your professors, who have been the most influential person in your academic career?
JH: Besides my professors, my mom has for sure been the most influential person, not only in my academics but across every aspect of my life. Since I was a kid, my mom would always push me to reach my fullest potential. Although I used to get a bit annoyed back in the day when she would be bugging me about my grades, I am now thankful for the level of accountability she held me to. The lessons and habits she exposed me to as a kid have shaped the student-athlete I am today. I would also like to give a special shoutout to my former academic advisor, Alexis Schmidt. She played a huge role in my success once I got to college.
Q. What has been your most memorable academic experience?
JH: My most memorable academic experience was getting my first exam grade back here at the University of Michigan. To my surprise at the time, I actually did really well on it, providing me with a massive boost of confidence. I've been able to carry this confidence not only throughout my years of academics but also onto the football field. From first stepping onto campus to now, I have a whole new mindset that is centered around my ability to achieve my goals during my time here. After that first exam and feeling the rush of success, I've never once again questioned if this university was where I was meant to be. The University of Michigan was meant to be my home.
Q. What has been your favorite class and why or too, what professor has had the greatest impact?
JH: My favorite class so far has been SM 217 -- Business Communications, taught by Kelli Donahue, one of the most influential professors I've ever had. The content of the course, including resume building, creating mock business proposals, and delivering professional presentations, provided me with a solid foundation of resources that have allowed me to succeed in my academics and beyond. I appreciate the engagement and encouragement Professor Donahue provided throughout the course. To me, SM 217 is one of those classes that all should take in order to be successful in the 'real world.'
Q. What is your favorite book and/or podcast?
JH: I'm not a huge book reader, but I do have a few podcasts I am loving at the moment. At the top of my list is "The Pivot" by former NFL players Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder. The show brings on a lot of cool athletes to touch on their past experiences and offer any insight they might have captured throughout their careers. I also really enjoy listening to a similar podcast, "I Am Athlete." This show was originally founded by Brandon Marshall, another former NFL player. Both podcasts provide me with an added layer of knowledge about the game.
