Cole Hallum, the 2015 Big South Player of the Year and a two-time graduate of Campbell University, spent two years as a financial representative for Modern Woodman of America before opening an independent insurance agency, Mammoth Insurance Group LLC, earlier this year.

Along with the Big South's top player award in 2015, Hallum was named a Third Team Louisville Slugger All-American by Collegiate Baseball Newspaper and was selected First Team All-Big South. During his junior season, Hallum ranked in the top-five of the Big South in home runs (12, T-3rd), slugging percentage (.599, 1st), runs batted in (48, 5th) and saves (9, 2nd).

Hallum transferred to Campbell from Bakersfield College prior to the 2015 season. He finished his career with 99 runs batted in and 109 hits, including 24 doubles and 22 home runs. He also earned 13 saves on the mound, a total that ranks fifth in program history.

A native of Bakersfield, Calif., Hallum continues Campbell baseball's Alumni Spotlight series, allowing Campbell baseball alumni to share how the program prepared them for their professional careers and highlight their professional accomplishments.

Describe Campbell baseball in three words.

Family, Sacrifice, Excellence

What does Campbell baseball mean to you?

Campbell baseball means family. My teammates at Campbell became lifelong brothers, and my teachers and coaches became friends and mentors. Campbell baseball also means integrity. The people who I developed relationships with have upstanding character and a willingness, if not eagerness, to help.  With no immediate family within 3,000 miles, this program was my rock, it's what I hung my hat on, and it molded me into the man I am today. Campbell Baseball is more than just a baseball program, it is a way of life, a culture, a fraternity, and a builder of fine young men with outstanding moral aptitude.

How did your time as a student-athlete at Campbell prepare you for your career and life after college?

Campbell baseball prepared me for the many endeavors after my athletic and academic career through the values it instilled in me. Time management, sacrifice, accountability, and preparation are a few of the skills that were engrained into me during my time, and they transitioned seamlessly into life after baseball. 

What originally attracted you to attend Campbell a student-athlete?

I had a good friend, Elijah Trail, who I grew up with, that played baseball at Campbell before me. He relayed to me what Campbell was all about and how positive his experience was. After a recruiting visit, I knew Campbell was the best place for me to continue my academic and athletic career. Campbell offered a top notch education, and a hard nose baseball program with very limited distractions.

What are some of the most memorable moments from your time as a student-athlete at Campbell?

There are many memories at Campbell of which I am very fond of including 5 a.m. weights, hell week, being ranked in the top 25, and winning a few awards. It may sound odd, but I can't think of anything I wouldn't give for one more early lift with my team.

Describe your career path.

After graduating from Campbell, I took a job as a financial advisor in Cary, working with Modern Woodmen of America. After working for two years, I transitioned into property and casualty insurance and opened my own agency. 

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment professionally is starting my own business, an independent insurance agency in Cary.

What was the most important thing you learned while you were at Campbell?

The most important think I learned at Campbell was that good things happen to good people. Do things the right way, no matter the circumstance, and you will be happy with what you see in the mirror. 

What advice would you give to current student-athletes at Campbell?

Invest. Give everything you have, exhaust yourself in your academic and athletic career, and the people that surround you. Embrace the struggle, and one day you will have built something you can look back and be proud of. And remember, always be 15 minutes early!