By Desiree M. Cooper
Joseph Metcalf loves to run.
Metcalf runs for the Eastern New Mexico University cross-country team. The 24-year-old also runs his own business. He runs the Student-Athlete 
Advisory Committee, acting as the organization’s president. In addition, Metcalf runs an organic chemistry class as a student instructor.
Metcalf is majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Business. The cross-country star chose to attend ENMU because of its Chemistry program.
“The academics here are great,” he said. “It is smaller but solid with really good professors.”
Metcalf’s grandfather, uncle, and father are all physicians. Metcalf, however, has a different plan for his future.
“I love medicine, but my heart is in being an entrepreneur,” Metcalf said.
The Nebraska native is well on his way to achieving that dream. He already owns a firework retail company.
Metcalf’s dream job is to work in explosive manufacturing for military application. The military interests the senior so much that he has considered joining the Navy.
The main thing stopping Metcalf from going into the Navy is the chance that he might miss out on starting a family.
“Faith, family, and education are a high priority,” Metcalf said.
Metcalf said he came from a “running family.” His recalls acquiring his love for running in seventh grade after watching his father race.
Metcalf regards his father as a role model.
“My father taught me to have a good work ethic, to trust Jesus Christ, and to be a man of character throughout my life,” he said.
Metcalf has had many fun experiences running for the ENMU cross-country team for two years.
“My favorite ENMU memory happened last fall,” he said. “I was running the national course for cross country in Missouri while it was raining. There was six-to-eight inches of water. It was a really muddy, fun race. I love running in bad conditions.”
The aspiring entrepreneur has a musical background.
“I played acoustic guitar for 11 years,” he said. “I played in different bands growing up. I’ve written songs that got recorded.”
Metcalf listens to an array of music genres. Among his favorites are classical music and R&B. His favorite band is Christian-rock group Building 429.
Metcalf sometime wants to step away from his busy schedule. To do so, he goes home to Norfolk, Neb., and takes a two-hour run in the hills.
“Life can be stressful, but I love being outside,” Metcalf said.