Four years can go by fast, especially if you’re a member of the ETSU cross-country team. For runner Lauren Campbell, a senior who graduates in December, life after college looks bright.
Campbell was the 2000 Southern Conference indoor 800-meter champion and runner-up at the 2001 Southern Conference indoor championships in that distance. Though she admits that she is proud of her accomplishments in both of these events, she added that she also enjoyed winning the Florida Relays’ 1500-meter run last year.
Campbell said that she first became interested in track when she was in second grade.
“I competed in a ‘Kids Day’ run,” she said. “Then, when I was a freshman in high school, I began to run because my friends were in track.”
Before she graduates, Campbell confided that she would like to bring her time down in the 800-meter run.
“I’ve ran 2:12 in the 800, and I’d like to go sub-2:10,” she said. “I’d also like to bring my 1500-meter time down … right now it’s at 4:36.”
Campbell’s goals for the rest of the season include being a fierce competitor in the outdoor conference meet in April.
“I have two months to train and get stronger,” she said.
Post-graduation, Campbell’s plans include an advertising internship. “I’m keeping my eyes wide open,” she explained.
A Knoxville native, Campbell said that she is currently considering jobs in Knoxville, Johnson City or Nashville. She first became interested in advertising after taking an introductory class.
Though she said that she will continue to work out, Campbell plans to take some time off from running after graduation.
“I may do some road races for fun, though,” she added quickly.
Campbell said that, during her time at ETSU, she has enjoyed traveling with the track team and competing most of all. “It’s great knowing that you practice every day and when you race, you see results. I like that I can work hard and improve my time every year. I’m also going to miss the friends I’ve made.

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