Jack Wilson starred on the State University of New York at New Paltz men's cross country team since coming in as a freshman in 2015. He helped the program to a fifth and fourth place standing at the conference championship meet during his senior and junior campaigns, respectively, while also aiding in the Hawks' 14th overall team finish at this past season's 2019 Atlantic Regional meet.
 
Wilson talked about his time as a Hawk and why there is only one SUNY New Paltz. 
 

"After the past five years spent studying, training, exploring, and most importantly finding oneself can I finally now answer the question as to why there is only one New Paltz. Choosing to go to New Paltz was quite simple as there are tons of trails to run on and explore as well as a highly academically acclaimed institution which one can receive one of the best educational experiences from. Over the years I have gotten to know the people and area around New Paltz and have come accustomed to many of the odd and unique traditions held by the students, faculty, and townspeople. For example, every year for Halloween everybody dresses up in their homemade costumes and parades in town, which ends with a trip to one of the bakery's where you can vote on the best pumpkin carving and munch on free-sample sweets. This kind of uniqueness is what makes New Paltz an almost indescribable experience that is better than the rest. From the clubs to the athletic teams, I have been able to carve my own path and create my very own unique experience that no one else will ever have. Each and every one that attends New Paltz has their own unique experience as well and there is never a dull moment because of this. I have grown so accustomed to the area it is as if I had grown up in New Paltz. I have explored almost every nook and cranny there is, but somehow I always find myself discovering something new that New Paltz has to offer me. All of the hiking, biking, and running trails that New Paltz has to offer is astounding, but what is even more magnificent are the views from the various mountain ridge lines, beautiful country roads, and the spectacular Mohonk mountain house tower. I'll be straightforward and say that New Paltz is never underwhelming or boring as long as you are willing to get out of bed early in the morning, cram yourself and five of your friends into a car, and go explore what New Paltz has to offer."

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