Elgin Scherff '24
With aspirations to start a career in prosthetics, Elgin Scherff ’24 made the most of his liberal arts education.
During Scherff’s time on campus, he participated in various clubs and organizations. When he wasn’t in the classroom, he spent his time running for the Blueboys cross country team. He broke a previously held school record for the 5K at the WashU Distance Carnival in 2023. Scherff finished 54th overall with a time of 16:07.87 to set the new school record in the event previously set in 1982.
Scherff combined his passion for the human body with a newfound love for physics, majoring in kinesiology with a minor in physics. “I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works, and physics just clicked for me,” he explained. This academic path was not just a choice but a step toward his goal of working in prosthetics. “A background in kinesiology and physics is perfect for a career in prosthetics,” Scherff said.
Reflecting on his time at IC, Scherff praised the support of his professors, especially his advisor, Paul Hamilton '09, whose guidance was instrumental in his academic success.
Beyond academics and athletics, Scherff’s involvement in Sigma Pi, where he served as president, was a key part of time on the Hilltop. The literary society helped him improve his public speaking and leadership skills, which he now uses with confidence.
Upon graduating, Scherff feels prepared for the future, crediting Illinois College for teaching him time management and planning. He fondly remembers his challenging first-year seminar with Bernd Estabrook as a formative experience. “It was tough, but it set me up for success,” Scherff said.