Will Bullock, a grad transfer from Eastern Illinois and the top finisher at Pepperdine's recent home cross country meet in Alumni Park, has emerged as a leader amongst his teammates with his attitude and his performances. In this interview, Will touches on what his experience as a Wave has been like, how he prepares himself mentally as an athlete, and shares wisdom from personal experience to younger athletes:
 
Q: What have you learned from your previous years at a different school that you have taken to Pepperdine?
 
A: At Eastern Illinois, I learned the value of working as a team and how to approach the 8k distance. I learned how to be purposeful in practice and where to apply pressure during the races. These things have carried over to Pepperdine.
 
Q: We hosted our first cross country meet in Alumni Park since 2017 a few weeks ago and you were the top finisher among our squad. What was it like running on campus and having Pepperdine fans and fellow students out there supporting you?
 
A: It was a lot of fun to see friends and family come out to cheer us on. It makes the community here a wonderful thing to be a part of.
 
Q: Mentally, how do you prepare for each race? Even as an experienced runner, do you still feel a lot of stress prior to races? How do you deal with it?
 
A: I prepare for each race by focusing on all the positives that could happen. As a result, I don't deal with much stress, and I have so much fun on the course.
 
Q: How was it going from high school in Georgia to Eastern Illinois to Pepperdine?
 
A: It's been interesting living in three distinct regions of the country. Each place has its own culture that I've had to adjust to. The largest change I've felt is the weather, and I love California's climate. I'm thankful I don't have to spend this winter in the Midwest.
 
Q: What has been the biggest challenge thus far for you that you have learned to overcome?
 
A: The biggest challenge I've had to overcome was redshirting my sophomore year due to injury. It took me years to improve after the setback, but the challenge turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Due to my injury, I'll have a sixth year of eligibility next fall.
 
Q: How would you describe the team culture built around Pepperdine cross country?
 
A: When I arrived at Pepperdine, the team welcomed me with open arms. The culture is that of a close-knit family, and I am glad to be a part of it.
 
Q: What are your goals for the rest of the season?
 
A: My goal is to run fast at WCC Championships and NCAA West Regionals … I'm a man of simple goals.
 
Q: Who is someone that inspires you?
 
A: My biggest inspiration is my sister, Addie Rose. Her hard work and resilience in swimming has made her an Ivy League champ, an Olympic Trials qualifier, and most importantly, an awesome sister.
 
Q: Being an experienced and accomplished senior runner, what is the biggest piece of advice you give or would give to a younger runner who may be starting his or her running career here at Pepperdine?
 
A: My advice is to find what you love about running and apply it to your training routine. I love to run high mileage because it allows me to see beautiful places. 
 
Q: What is next for you in life after Pepperdine?
 
A: Due to injuries and the COVID year, I will have a sixth year next fall, so I won't leave the team just yet. But after my two years are done, I'll graduate with a MFA in screenwriting. I plan on working in the film/TV industry, and I may run a few marathons, too.