A recent graduate of Auburn University's College of Liberal Arts in interdisciplinary studies with emphases in communication and kinesiology, defensive lineman Daquan Newkirk reflected on his path to earning an Auburn degree and now pursuing his master's.
After graduating from The First Academy in Orlando, Florida, Newkirk began his college career at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. He attributed his success and experience at Auburn to lessons learned during his time at junior college.
"It would have definitely been difficult, and I would have had to get acclimated to a lot of things differently," he said.
Despite battling injuries, Newkirk knew the Auburn Family was there for him. He said the 2019 Iron Bowl win was the most memorable moment of his time so far at Auburn.
"It was my first time experiencing everyone rushing the field and I won't ever forget that," he said. "We beat the odds. It's what our coaches keep telling us – never give up."
With a new season on the horizon, the team will need that determination and cohesiveness to face the stiff competition in the SEC.
"We are leaning on that brotherhood," Newkirk said. "It is straight family and becoming more as one, because we've felt that before and we know what becoming one can do for a team."
With that goal in mind, Newkirk said his role as an upperclassman will be to "show the [younger players] the way." He wants other players to see, not just hear, what it takes to be good at this level and give them their best chance to succeed.
While Newkirk preaches being coachable on the field, he also draws on the importance of "going to class and doing all of the little things you need to do to be successful at Auburn."
To be successful, players need to remain focused in all aspects of life. "Don't let anyone get you off track, don't let anyone deter you off of your path," he said. "Never forget your goal; never forget why you play; and never forget why you came to Auburn. Determine what is your why."
While Newkirk has goals of playing in the NFL, he does not let that overshadow his current goals at Auburn. Throughout his journey, he has been able to stay on his path and remain focused with support from his mother, Patricia Sowell.
"Growing up, she was always there for me," he said.
There were plenty of times he wanted to give up on football but after talking to his mother, he always continued to play. Without her support, Newkirk would not be the player on the team and student in the classroom that he is today.
In two seasons, Newkirk has played 20 games at Auburn, contributing a dozen tackles and two tackles for loss. Although he's a senior, Newkirk continues to be a student of his craft, and will work to pursue a master's degree this fall while concluding his football career on the Plains.
Jen Dietrich is a student worker in Auburn Athletics media relations and a member of Auburn's cross country and track and field teams.