Getting to Know the “King” of Defi

By. Jack Brubaker-Flood

Defiance College has many great workers on campus that I enjoy talking to and do a great job making the campus the outstanding place it is today. However, earlier in the week, I got the chance to interview one of Defi’s best students that also happens to be an R.A, service leader, president of the honors program, lab assistant intern, A&P SI, math and science tutor, and former D.C basketball player: Zadria King. In the interview, King gave her opinions on campus and everything that she has done for it. The interview gave me an opportunity to pick her brain and to learn more about the college.


The first question I asked her was, “Why DC? What made you come here and what makes you stay at Defiance College?” She said, “I chose DC because it gave me the best opportunity for growth. Defi has helped me grow into an independent adult with the tools necessary to succeed. The reason I stay is because to me, it is home. My friends, professors, and staff are all so outgoing and make me feel part of a community. It has a great atmosphere that pulls you in.” The next question I asked was, “What was your favorite moment from your time spent at Defiance College?” She said, “My favorite moment probably has been my McMasters trip to Ireland. The group was amazing and the experience was unforgettable.” These questions gave me an opportunity to understand campus culture a little better.


As the interview progressed, I asked her about her experiences working with the students and staff on campus. King replied, “My experience has been really good! Everyone has been really open and welcoming and it’s a good atmosphere here.” Next, I wondered about her ability to balance her life with her studies and everything else she has going on. She gave some great advice, telling me, “It can be tough, but I have three calendars and planners to keep me organized. Time-management is a necessary tool for me to use daily.” Advice like this can really help students, no matter what year they are in their college career.


My final two questions involved more of the campus community. I asked her, “What do you feel are some issues that Defiance college staff could fix to improve the school?” Her response was, “I would say for staff to improve student resources on campus. Also, a way to gain more real-world experiences to prepare fully for post-grad life.” The last question I asked was, “If you had the chance to talk to a high school senior about college what would you say about Defiance College?” She told me that “Defiance might be small but it really has heart. The people here are one of a kind and the memories you will make her will be with you forever.” Overall, it was a pleasure to get to know Zadria King better and she truly is someone that I and many of the people reading this should inspire to be like.