Justin Fiume, Bard College
Year: Graduate Student
Hometown: Cliffside Park, N.J.
Sport: Baseball
Position: First Base
Major: Economics
What made you choose Bard College?
“I chose Bard for several reasons: the beautiful Hudson Valley was definitely appealing to me. The environment has a slower pace to it (compared to the suburbs of NJ) which I felt I needed. It was also the only place I could not only play ball, but actually contribute meaningfully to the team. The academics are rigorous and it's not too far from home, but also not too close.”
Why did you decide to be a Division III student-athlete?
“I decided to become a Division III athlete because I didn't want to give up baseball yet. Very simply, I wanted to play a game I love for a few extra years before having to hang 'em up. Division III, along with my coaches and teammates, has provided me with that opportunity.”
What is your favorite moment as a Liberty League student-athlete?
“All of my favorite memories as an athlete have been because of, and with, my teammates. Imagine playing a game you love with your best friends every day; I've been living the dream.”
Are you a member of any other clubs/organizations at your school, in addition to athletics?
“I'm currently the president of our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). My role is to run meetings, facilitate our events and initiatives, and help work to improve the welfare of our athletes. I decided to join because I feel it's important that when you're a part of something bigger than you, and spend countless hours trying to improve the reputation of your program/department, you're given a fair chance to voice your opinions and concerns to create an environment you're proud of. The events and fundraisers we hold are also a ton of fun and support great causes, such as the Polar Plunge (my favorite) which supports Special Olympics New York.
What are your future career goals/plans? Have you done any internships/volunteering to help you with that goal?
“Career wise, I don't really have a 'dream job'. I'm open to anything, although I have some interests. One of my goals is to have the geographical mobility to be able to work wherever I want within the country. With that freedom, I want to find a job where I can positively impact people economically, whether it's working on programs that'll improve living standards in targeted communities or on policies that would help close the gender wage gap, including the generally wider wage gap between mothers and fathers.”
Favorite pro sports team: New York Islanders
Favorite pro athlete: Yogi Berra
Favorite book: Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking – Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite movie: The Shawshank Redemption
Anything else you want to share (fun facts, hidden talents, etc.)?
“I can wiggle my ears, either one at a time or simultaneously!”