Meet the graduates: Tristian Palmer ’24

Tristian Palmer ’24 is putting his best foot forward as he leaves the Red Brick Wall behind. 

“My ultimate goal is to become an athletic or fashion shoe designer or possibly extend my education to the doctoral level and become an orthotist,” said Palmer, a sport and exercise studies major. 

Next fall, Palmer will start Ball State University’s master’s program in biomechanics. 

Part of the larger field of kinesiology, biomechanics is the study of human movement—essentially how all the individual parts of the body work together to move. It looks at how the body functions internally, as well as how it responds to external forces to create movement. 

“A lot of shoe design aspects contribute to improved biomechanics, including heel-to-toe drop, cushioned insoles, and even down to the lacing system,” Palmer said. “Orthotists primarily work with customized shoe insoles, which improves overall arch support and strengthens muscles, decreasing overuse injuries. With my background in cross country and track and field, the potential shoe design pathway really intrigues me.”

Palmer got a solid foundation at Randolph, where he forged close bonds with his professors and bonded with his classmates. 

“Randolph College is special because of how comfortable you feel throughout your four years here,他说. “Small class sizes, no classes on Wednesdays, and numerous student life events prioritize the student. When applying to undergraduate programs Randolph was on my list because of the ability to continue my sport aspirations while prioritizing my course schedule. On top of my 2020 visit making me feel cozy here.”