It’s Homecoming Weekend! We caught up with Stew Newblatt CC’23 (he/him/his), an offensive lineman and a second-time team captain for the Lions. An American studies major from Clarkston, Mich., he can be heard weekly on the Captain’s Corner podcast. Be sure to cheer on Newblatt and the rest of the team as they take on the Big Green on Saturday, October 22, at Robert K. Kraft Field.
Photo by Carlisle Stockton
What is your favorite part about being involved in Lions football?
Definitely my teammates and the people I’ve met through the team. I think there’s a certain type of person who comes to Columbia to play football — a person who wants to be challenged.
Why did you choose the College?
It was one of the schools that wanted me! But it’s such a great academic school, paired with being in New York City. I wanted somewhere where I felt like I would be challenged and that would set me up for the future. I thought being in the best city in the world would be a huge benefit. There are also many people in the Columbia administration who are supportive of Athletics. A huge part of what makes Columbia unique and special is the people who make our experience better and who are excited to see us show up every day; they make it easier to be a student-athlete.
What’s been your favorite class, and why?
I really liked Art Hum. It wasn’t something I expected to enjoy but it opened my eyes to something completely new. Also, in my major, I took “A Tale of Two Cities: New York, San Francisco, and Urban Identity” last semester, and it was great. It gave me a lot of context about the East versus West coast, covering everything from architecture, to the art that has come out of each city, to how each city is viewed in society today.
What do you like to do outside of class?
Football takes up the majority of my time!
How do you like to take advantage of being in New York City?
My favorite thing is watch stand-up comedy. Going downtown to do something like that is so much fun; it gives you a sense of culture, and it’s relaxing. I also love when my friends and family from out of town visit and I can show them around!