What do colleges look for in an applicant? 36 on the ACT? Top-notch athlete? Answer: Both. Versatility is key when applying to colleges. Applicants who present a well-rounded resume often exhibit higher chances of admission. Bob Jones 2011 graduate, Emanuel Waddell III, proves how a hidden talent and a hobby can take you to unexpected places.

For Emanuel Waddell III, poetry was not his first love. In fact, Waddell never gave poetry a thought. According to his former creative writing teacher, Mrs. Panagos, Emanuel “barely even talked during class.”

So it may have come as a surprise that he made history for Bob Jones in poetry.

In 2010, Waddell won first place in the Alabama state regionals for Poetry Out Loud. Securing this award, Waddell became the first person to ever win a Poetry Out Loud contest for Bob Jones High School. “I found it (reciting poetry) and I tried it, ” said Waddell.

Waddell advanced to the State tournament, where he placed fifth among the field. In addition to poetry, Waddell played soccer and ran track for the Patriots. He is also in his junior year and majoring in psychology with a minor in economics at Morehouse College. His recitation skills have transferred over into his new found love, debate. Waddell is a member of the debate team. “I love economics, so I love debating topics related to it,” said Waddell. “I also love debating social issues.”

Through debate, Waddell has not only met students from other national universities, but students from around the world. In December 2013, Waddell and his team traveled to Bangladesh. There, they faced off against intense great debaters from Bangladesh and South Africa in the Asia Debate Academy Finals. Morehouse took first place in the competition.

Bob Jones has not only boosted Waddell’s confidence in public speaking but also in his academics. “Nothing in college has surprised me. Taking AP classes and creative writing in addition to the rigorous coursework made me prepared for college,” said Waddell.

Waddell plans on graduating next year. After he will attend graduate school, but he is unsure of what field he will go into. This summer, Waddell, will intern for a company he has not decided on. “Networking is very crucial. It is important that you start early and start meeting people,” said Waddell.

Though Waddell’s recitation days are over, he still continues to use those skills on the soccer field and for debate.