Jesse Van Krimpen

Jesse's History Making Moments

What are your central passion(s), and how do you plan to pursue them after graduation?

My central passions are fitness and travelling. After graduation I am going on a two-month trip to explore East Asia, which includes travelling to China, Japan, and South Korea. I am signing up for my first Ironman in December (Ironman Florida), and I have also completed two HYROX races, with two more planned for after graduation where I hope to qualify for the world championships.

Who or what inspired your passion in this area?

I have always been in good shape thanks to soccer and the very demanding environment of college athletics. I figured there is no better time to pick up endurance sports (triathlon) than after I finish, so my training has shifted from soccer to endurance, and I am really enjoying the process.

As for travelling, I have always loved history and learning more about all the different and unique cultures across the world. My dream is to one day visit all 195 countries on earth.

Can you share a memorable story from your time at Flagler that always makes you smile?

Winning the conference championship with the soccer team, which was the first time they had achieved this feat in 13 years was truly amazing and something that will stick with me for life. 

Another memorable moment was my FlagSHIP trip to Costa Rica. It was such an amazing experience and I genuinely can’t put into words the impact it had on my life. Seeing such a unique culture and the simple life they live there was a huge inspiration to me and allowed me to realize what truly matters in life.

Which academic resources, experiences, or mentors at Flagler were most valuable to you, and how did they contribute to your success?

My coaches played a huge role in my journey and success at Flagler. When I first came to the U.S. in 2022, they helped me settle in quickly and adjust to life in a new country. They made St. Augustine feel like home and showed me the importance of building strong relationships while maintaining a healthy balance between work and life.

What advice or lesson would you give to your freshman year self about the college experience?

I would tell myself to really stay in the moment and try to always be aware of how fast time moves and how quickly the experience will be. I love the mantra of saying yes to everything and putting myself into positions that I can learn from and meet new people.

The days I remember the most are the spontaneous trips, or talking with new people, trying new things, being present in every moment and conversation. Always seek to find value in things you do. You may not realize it straight away but every conversation and moment can teach you something about life and how to become a better version of yourself.

In the Flagler spirit, how do you hope to make history after graduation?

I hope to qualify for both the HYROX World Championships and the Ironman World Championship. I also hope my startup, FocusTap, the winner of Lions Cage 2026, takes off at Flagler and becomes one of the most successful business ideas ever to come out of the college.