Earlier this fall, fourth-year student Jai Cunsolo Willox helped lead King’s Blue Devils men’s soccer team to an undefeated season as centre back, one of the most demanding positions on the field. Off the pitch, he’s finishing his Bachelor of Science, with a double major in math and physics. His coaches know him as a cerebral leader with a laser focus. So do his professors.
As for what’s next, Cunsolo Willox is considering a master’s, followed by a PhD.
“I wouldn’t mind doing some research, or becoming a prof,” he says. One thing he does know for sure: “I don’t want an office job. I like being like active and being outside. I don’t mind doing some computer work, but I can’t see myself with a nine-to-five.”
So, what’s harder: a physics exam or a tied match in the final minutes?
I test pretty well so I don’t get too stressed during exams. But near the end of a game after running for 90 minutes and your team needs a goal, that gets stressful. But it feels like a privilege to be nervous in that kind of scenario.
What’s the most challenging class you’ve ever taken?
Definitely Quantum Physics, which I took in third year. Out of all my classes, it was the least applicable to everyday life.
Which skill on the field secretly feels like a math problem?
Shape/positioning. Whether it’s to get the next pass or the player you’re defending, soccer is all about angles.
What’s your favourite class this term?
A physics class called Solar System Astronomy. We’ve been learning about the history of the solar system, the scientists who figured out its different parts, and all about different celestial bodies.
What did it mean to you to receive the Smith-Jackson Memorial Scholarship?
I always appreciate being recognized for accomplishments in athletics and academics. I was very proud to have received this honour, and I am very thankful to have been chosen as the recipient.
What’s the one study habit you swear by?
I am not someone who studies for weeks for an exam. I find what works best for me is spending a day or two writing out all the important parts of what the exam is on, then another day or two doing practice problems and going over old assignments.
If you could combine math, physics and soccer into a future career, what would it be?
If I could find a career that combined the three, I would be pretty happy. I think the closest job would be working with soccer statistics or creating a soccer-related item like cleats that offer better grip.
Founded in memory of King’s alumni John Frederick Lester Jackson, BA 1925, DCL’63, Owen Benjamin Smith, BSc 1923, DCnL’54, Margaret Kathleen Smith, BA’28, and Wallace Wyniard Smith, 1916, the Smith-Jackson Memorial Scholarship supports students from New Brunswick or Nova Scotia who have completed at least one year at the University. The recipient should be active in university organizations that benefit fellow students, be active in athletics as well as be a deserving scholar. Learn more about in-course scholarships and awards at King’s.
