Finding balance and building community: Travis Tompkins’s CMU journey

When sophomore finance major Travis Tompkins of Lansing, Mich., first toured Central Michigan University, the decision came easily. “I loved it—it felt homey. I loved the business college. It was very welcoming, and I fell in love quickly,” he said.

That feeling of connection set the tone for his first year, where he leaned on community, built new routines, and stepped into leadership. Tompkins chose to major in finance after discovering his interest in high school. “I had finance courses in high school, and it was interesting. I found it fascinating,” he said. “My ‘why’ has not changed a ton, but it has grown. I haven’t taken finance courses here yet, but I’m looking forward to it.”

One of his favorite classes so far has actually been outside of business—Latin American Experience, where history professor Jonathan Truitt uses board games to bring the past to life. “We played board games and got to learn history,” he said.

For Tompkins, joining the Business Residential College made the biggest difference in feeling supported at CMU. “Being part of BRC was a big help. Lori [Driessnack] was amazing, and having academic advisors and the E-board was great,” he said. “I love BRC for academics and for helping me feel supported—with and without school.”

After starting as a member, Tompkins now serves as a peer mentor on the BRC E-board. “It has brought me community, and it’s been wonderful,” he said.

Tompkins describes his days as a mix of structure and fun. “My typical day is morning classes, then lunch, then homework. I segment out an hour to unwind and get work done. Friends come over and we go to dinner and hang out the rest of the night. Around 9, BRC members can come and talk,” he said.                

Maintaining balance is something he takes seriously. “I try to stay on routine and allow a good amount of sleep, relax time, and time for meals,” he said. “Taking an hour or two to go do something that you enjoy keeps me motivated.” When he needs a break, he keeps it simple. “Sitting down watching a movie or TV and eating a snack,” he said.

Tompkins said the biggest surprise about starting college was the freedom. “I wish I had known how much free time you have,” he said. “College is a lot less structured than high school—in a good way. You have to rely on yourself, plan, and prepare. Look ahead to find yourself.”

For high school students unsure of what’s next, his advice is reassuring. “Don’t stress about it. You have time to figure out what your passions are,” he said.

Tompkins hopes his career blends stability with happiness. "I want to have a good, stable job with a good income and a place I’m happy,” he said. “CMU taught me that getting a job is important, but also that if you do not enjoy it, then you should not be doing that."

Looking back one day, he knows what will stand out most. "A lot of good memories with friends and a lot of firsts for me,” he said. “CMU helped open me up, and I’ve had so many special experiences. I get to grow in many ways I could not imagine.”