Promise Scholar- Tom Clark

Giselle Martinez

For Tom Clark, college has been a journey of new experiences, challenges, and personal growth. Promise Scholar, Tom is a sophomore at Kalamazoo College, studying Business and Psychology. While he may not call these subjects his true passions, he sees them as valuable tools that will help shape his future. 

Tom’s decision to pursue business came unexpectedly. “I took one class and realized I was already a third of the way done with the major because of Advanced Placement (AP) credits,” he says. “So, I figured I might as well finish it.” His love for working with people makes both business and psychology practical choices, giving him skills he can apply to any career path. 

Unlike most athletes who start young, Tom found tennis in an unusual place—a dentist’s office. While waiting, he watched a match on TV and thought, “That looks easy.” At 14, he picked up a racket for the first time and quickly realized how challenging the sport actually was. His freshman season was tough, finishing with an 0-27 record. “I lost every single match,” he recalls. But instead of quitting, he doubled down. “By my senior year, the program had improved tremendously, and we finished with the best record in over 25 years.” Now, he plays for Kalamazoo College, one of the most historically dominant college tennis programs in the country, balancing both academics and athletics. 

With over 20 hours a week dedicated to tennis, Tom has mastered time management. “I grew up knowing that you do what needs to be done first, then you do what you want,” he says. Oddly enough, the demands of tennis actually help him stay focused. “When I’m in season, I manage my time better because I have no choice but to stay on top of everything.” 

Tom isn’t just an athlete—he’s a leader. He credits Cain Sandoval, the president of the Western Michigan University Promise Scholars, for inspiring him to start the Kalamazoo College Promise Scholars. "Shoutout to Cain! He really encouraged me to take the initiative and make this happen," Tom says. As the founder and president of Kalamazoo College Promise Scholars, he brings Promise recipients together. “We help students find opportunities, grow professionally, and build friendships while connecting through community volunteering,” he explains. The group also organizes events, like a Valentine’s Day celebration where students exchange secret admirer notes and decorate cookies. 

Between injuries, schoolwork, sports, and internships, Tom has had his share of struggles. “Sometimes I feel like I’m always trying to catch up,” he admits. However, one of his biggest lessons in college has been learning to ask for help. “That’s the key—reach out when you need it. Whether it’s professors, teammates, or friends, there’s always someone willing to support you.” 

Tom now sees education as more than just lectures and textbooks. “Some of my biggest learning moments have come from talking to people and gaining real-life experiences,” he says. He values the broad education Kalamazoo College provides, seeing it as preparation for both his career and life beyond school. He also credits his time working at The Kalamazoo Promise through the Higher Promise Internship program for teaching him about the professional world and preparing him for the future. 

Tom is excited about what lies ahead, including a study abroad experience in Athens, Greece. After college, he hopes to explore new places but remains open to returning to Kalamazoo in the future. “I want to see the world, but I might come back someday,” he says. No matter where he ends up, he hopes to make a positive impact and bring joy to those around him. 

Tom offers simple yet meaningful advice: “Make the most of the opportunity you’ve been given. Not everyone has this chance, so take full advantage of it.” 

Tom’s story is a testament to hard work, adaptability, and the power of community—qualities that will undoubtedly lead him toward a bright and promising future.