Name: Coleman Craddock-Willis
Hometown: Medford, Mass.
Major/Minor(s): History major with Music and Entrepreneurship double minor
Involvement: BSA (Black Student Alliance), Club Squash, Entrepreneurship club, Butter Music Industry, tutor for Ashley Elementary, Genuine Voices program
Relationship Status: In a relationship
Year: Junior
This fun-loving guy can make you laugh, get the ladies with a few simple words, and blow your mind with his musical talent. Meet this week’s Campus Cutie, Coleman Craddock-Willis.
HC (Her Campus): How do you feel about being this week’s Campus Cutie?
CW (Coleman Craddock-Willis): When I found out, I didn’t know what to think. I was like – was it a joke? Like, who would chose me? But I feel so honored right now. I’m really happy about it.
HC: You seem so humble and genuine. Do you consider yourself to be a down to earth person?
CW: (Laughs) You know what … I actually do. My family and friends would consider me to be very laidback, sometimes to the point of laziness. But, you know me – I still get things done.
HC: I bet you do. Can you tell us a little about your experience here at Wake?
CW: It’s been very cool. It’s been academically challenging, and there are so many opportunities to meet new people and join different groups. Every day at Wake is a new experience and challenge.
HC: I agree with you. For a lot of people, Wake is like that. So I heard through the grapevine that you transferred from a previous school?
CW: I did. I transferred from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. I am a piano player, and there I was majoring in music production and also studying music engineering. I wrote many songs over there.
HC: Very cool. How has it been coming from a music school to Wake?
CW: It’s been cool. Definitely a new experience and transition. Student body wise, Berklee was 70% guys and 30% girls. So let’s say that now I am very happy being around a lot more females. (Laughs) Anyway, I still love Berklee with all my heart. At some point, I’d like to go back and pursue a career in music.
HC: Besides being very passionate about music, what else are you involved with?
CW: I’m a part of BSA (Black Student Alliance). I’m a part of club squash. I’m additionally a part of Entrepreneurship club. And I kind of have my own music brand, which is Butter Music Industry, where I have produced some beats and songs. I also did some tutoring for Ashley Elementary. I like being able to help out the kids. And I participate in the Genuine Voices program.
HC: I see that you enjoy being able to help out wherever you can. Would you say that community is important to you?
CW: Community, for me, is at the center of all things great. It’s one of the main reasons why I transferred to Wake. I wanted more of a traditional college experience and a more united student body. I think community is the reason why people strive for great things and continue to be all that they can be.
HC: (Laughs) Very profound words.
CW: Well, you know I try.
HC: So are you in a relationship or single at the moment?
CW: (Laughs, pauses, then smiles) I actually am dating someone. Say what?!
HC: (Laughs) How long have you guys been dating?
CW: We have been dating for four years.
HC: Aww, how cute! Even though you’re in a relationship, can you tell us what you look for in a girl?
CW: Well first, I look for a beautiful smile and – wait, let me think about this … Oh yeah, a sense of humor and intelligence.
HC: Good qualities. Do you have any turn-offs?
CW: Yeah, I do actually. It’s obnoxiousness. (Laughs) I really hate that mess.
HC: What are your go to moves to win the ladies?
CW: Yep, this one never fails – you go up to any girl, walking slowly, smile and say, “Can I flirt with you?” I guarantee that will make any girl smile and think you’re cute or funny. Then you can introduce yourself from there and see where it goes.
HC: I’ve actually never heard that pick up line before, but hey, it seems to have worked for you.
CW: (Laughs) Yeah, it did.
HC: Finally, are there any words of wisdom you would like to bestow on the freshmen?
CW: Classical question. I would say to branch out and get involved, and not be afraid to be yourself.
*Photos by Victoria Washington.