Sonoma State Star

Issue date: 2/12/08 Section: Features

Steve Sanderson is without a doubt the most recognizable face at the Rec Center.

Known to his friends as "Big Red," senior Steve Sanderson is an unmistakable face on campus. Though his size may intimidate some, Sanderson has nothing but an open heart and kind words to share with those around him.

He has worked at the Recreation Center for almost two years and is there five to seven days a week. He feels that it is a great environment to have fun and meet people.

Along with working at the Fitness Center, he has turned working out into a hobby.

"The combination of nutrition and weight lifting to manipulate the body is fascinating," said Sanderson.

He is diligent in his craft and maintains an intense workout regimen, all with a smile on his face.

Freshman Michael Stornaiuolo expressed his feelings about Sanderson in a joking manner.

"Big Steve makes me feel uncomfortable in the weight room," he said of his fitness idol.

Inspired by both his mother and father, Sanderson feels that his parents keep him grounded.

"They raised me to be a respectful young man, with values and how to treat a woman right. I guess you can call me old fashioned," said Sanderson.

When asked about his girlfriend of two months, Jessica Dawney, he smiled shyly and said, "We get each other. We are just weird in a good way."

Dawney and Sanderson were friends for a while before they started dating. She works at the Rec Center as well.

Raised in a Christian home, faith plays a large role in Sanderson's life.

"I'm not perfect, I struggle at times. Knowing God has his hand over everything is comforting," he said.

While working out Sanderson is most likely listening to Christian music. He brings all aspects of his life back to his faith.

Sanderson added, "The body is intricate and wonderful the way God made it. It's like a machine."

Sanderson is an economics major and hopes to make a career out of marketing research and analysis. He prefers the statistical side of marketing. "Yes, I actually really do like math," admitted Sanderson.

He has enjoyed and appreciated his time at Sonoma State, but his favorite memories consist of playing intramural basketball.

"We are six time champions," Sanderson politely boasted.

The friendships cultivated and the camaraderie gained is something that will stay with Sanderson for a lifetime. He describes himself in three simple words: extraverted, funny and genuine. All of these qualities are apparent to any one that has the pleasure of coming into contact with him.

Sanderson plans to graduate this spring after spending all four years here at SSU. He has grown a lot but believes he is the same at his core saying, "I've changed, some for the better, some for the worse… but I'm still me, always a work in progress."

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