Opening Doors

Danny Cross, an exercise science major, is a member of the Franklin College baseball team who chose to attend Franklin College because of his sport and the College community. 

“Baseball was my main priority, but on my visit, I fell in love with the college and the people here. Franklin College has opened doors for me to earn my degree while playing the sport I love.” — Danny Cross ’26

Even though he came from a larger high school, Cross values the small-town nature of Franklin and the close community the College offers. Franklin College is a “home away from home” for Cross and has helped him grow in ways he had not anticipated. 

“I feel even though Franklin College is smaller than my high school, you get to meet people that are from different areas and come from different backgrounds. That helped me grow as a person,” he said. 

Initially, Cross thought he wanted to be a business major. However, once he found out about the exercise science program, he immediately switched. He currently he plans to attend physical therapy school upon graduation in 2026 and believes Franklin College has prepared him for his post-graduation journey by providing the resources necessary to achieve his goals. And that preparation primarily comes down to the people who have helped him along the way. 

“Professor [Adam] Heavrin and Professor [Lauren] Ryan have helped me become a well-rounded student,” Cross said. “They have been there in the classroom and made themselves available in their office hours. I am grateful for their time and ability to prepare me for future classes.”

At Franklin College, students find support from professors, staff and other students.