For Zac Yoakam, a junior at the University of Notre Dame, the journey began with two things: education and football. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, Zac was drawn to Notre Dame for its prestigious academics and powerhouse football program. However, what truly cemented his love for the university was something deeper: its faith, culture, and the incredible sense of purpose it provides. Zac is a Finance major with minors in Constitutional Studies and European Studies, a combination that intertwines his interest for a quantitative-based area of study and his passion for history and political philosophy.

His academic path was carefully chosen to provide him with skills suited for the real world. That balance between practicality and intellectual curiosity is evident in his coursework, particularly in the German history classes he takes for his European Studies minor. One of his favorite courses at Notre Dame was taught by Professor CJ Jones, where he explored the role of German settlers in America, particularly the Moravians. Zac has been able to learn more about his own German heritage, as his ancestors came from Hessen in the 1750s. He appreciates how studying history and language connects him to his roots while also challenging him intellectually. “Learning languages is a challenge,” he admits, “but that’s what makes it exciting.”

Through his studies, Zac has developed a close connection with the Department of German, Slavic, and Eurasian Studies. His interactions with professors have been one of the highlights of his academic journey, and he values the relationships he has built with faculty who have encouraged his passion for history, language, and culture. He frequently engages with the department beyond the classroom, discussing historical events and the broader impact of German influence on American society.

Zac’s love for learning extends beyond the classroom. A self-described historian at heart, he enjoys studying people and how they interact within societies, especially in the realm of political philosophy. His curiosity about governance and human behavior has shaped his ambitions for the future. Though his career path is still forming, he envisions himself either in the financial world —potentially working in startups or pursuing a law degree to enter business law. The combination of these fields offers a dynamic and strategic perspective that excites him.

Zac enjoys having discipline with a schedule but still finds time for the things he loves. As a football player for Notre Dame, he has learned the importance of perseverance, leadership, and personal growth. His ultimate goal? To help his team win a National Championship — something he and his teammates came incredibly close to this year. But beyond the titles and honors, Zac is focused on becoming the best version of himself, both as a player and a person.

“Choose the path that’s best for your future,” he recalls from his coach, Marcus Freeman; words he strives to live by every day.

Faith is a cornerstone of Zac’s Notre Dame experience. He attends daily Mass three to four times a week, finding strength and clarity in his spiritual life. Outside of academics and athletics, he enjoys simple pleasures: road trips to Chicago, short vacations to Lake Michigan or Indianapolis, and browsing flea markets, including the Amish flea market in Indiana. He’s also an avid collector of Pokémon cards.

As Zac prepares for his senior year, he carries with him a passion for learning, an unwavering faith, and a commitment to personal growth. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or in his future career, he embodies the spirit of Notre Dame: driven by purpose, shaped by tradition, and always striving to be his best.

Originally published by Alejandro Zetina Ramirez at germanandslavic.nd.edu on February 04, 2025. Minor modifications by Keith Sayer, Nanovic Institute for European Studies, May 13, 2025.