Will McNulty was a high school student in the middle of a global pandemic, trying to navigate through the difficult decision of making a college choice. It’s already a challenging process, especially as an aspiring student-athlete. Covid-19 only added to the chaos.
 
Despite the obstacles, McNulty's pursuit led him to Illinois Wesleyan University. During his recruiting process, he reached out to numerous programs at various levels, hoping to find the right fit for his athletic and academic goals. It was during this search that he crossed paths with the coaches at IWU. Now, as a senior men’s soccer student-athlete, he reflects on his journey and his Division III experiences that have shaped his time as a Titan.
 
"I was already in contact with the coaches, and they saw me play at a camp," McNulty recalled. "One thing led to another, and I got the chance to visit the campus in August of 2020. It was a unique time to be visiting schools, but I immediately felt a connection to Illinois Wesleyan."
 
McNulty's visit to the campus proved to be a turning point in his recruiting journey. He was captivated by the close-knit community, the opportunity to build strong relationships with faculty and professors, and the overall atmosphere of the school. The core values and spirit of Division III were at the center of everything he liked.
 
"There was just something special about being on campus," McNulty said. "I had the chance to meet with professors and the dean of the business school, and it was a fantastic experience. It was a lightbulb moment for me, where I knew that Illinois Wesleyan was the place where I could grow as a person and a player."
 
McNulty recognized the importance of this balance and embraced the opportunities that Illinois Wesleyan and the Division III experience offered beyond the soccer field.
 
"It's not easy to juggle academics, athletics, and extracurriculars, but I wouldn't trade it for the world," McNulty said. "I started a club, got involved in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and took advantage of internships during the summer. Division III gives you the chance to have a little bit of everything, and that's what makes it so special."
 
McNulty's commitment to being a well-rounded student-athlete is a testament to the supportive environment at Illinois Wesleyan.
 
"My favorite part of being at Illinois Wesleyan is the people," McNulty said. "The faculty, coaches, and mentors have pushed me to grow and become a better person and player. They genuinely care about your success and are always willing to go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals."
 
As McNulty reflects on his journey and prepares for the next chapter of his life, he has valuable advice for future student-athletes who may be facing similar challenges when considering a Division III institution.
 
"Don't overthink it," McNulty said. "Go where your heart tells you to go and work hard. The recruiting process can be overwhelming, but trust your instincts and find a place where you can grow and thrive. Division III offers incredible opportunities to balance academics and athletics, so embrace the chance to have a well-rounded college experience."
 
McNulty has played in 51 matches for the Titans since 2021, including 30 starts. He was in the starting lineup on a crisp November night in 2023 when IWU scored three goals in the final 20 minutes to win the CCIW Championship at Carthage. The Titans overcame a second-half deficit three times in eight nights to become the first #6 seed to win a CCIW Championship.
 
As he prepares to graduate and embark on his future endeavors, he carries with him the lessons and experiences that have shaped him into the person and player he is today.