Paul Miller has made a big impact on the Colorado high school scene. He will next attempt to do the same at the college level for the University of Colorado. Contributed photo.
Paul Miller's best marks:
1600 meters - 4:22.60 (at altitude)
3200 meters - 9:26.42 (at altitude)
5K cross country - 15:36.4
How long have you been thinking about running with the Buffaloes?
From the beginning of my junior year I knew that I wanted to run for a competitive Division 1 school. I felt that I would be able to fit in with the program at CU and that they would help me become the best runner that I can be.
Once you had a short list of schools, what made the decision for CU?
I narrowed down the choice to either Cal Berkeley or CU. Berkeley had a great program as well and seemed very welcoming, but I felt like the atmosphere at CU suited my personality better. It seemed to be the best place for me to thrive academically, socially, and athletically. After a visit to both of the schools, the choice was obvious.
What will you be studying at CU?
Over the course of the past year, I have taken an interest in environmental science. General ecology and evolutionary biology will most likely be topics that I will study.
Of all the races you run, what's your favorite distance, and why?
I like the strategy and the courage that the 3200m requires, but the 1600m is by far my favorite distance. It is short enough to require a good amount of speed, but long enough where it tests strategy and aerobic capacity.
As you look back on your high school career, do you have a most satisfying moment you can identify?
My most satisfying moment would be the 3200m at the Liberty Bell Invite just last week. It felt great to get that elusive PR and to break the school record that I’ve been chasing since the beginning of junior year.
Do you have any goals for the end of your high school career that you're willing to talk about?
My goal is to have all of the hard work I’ve put in over the past four years show and demonstrate what I am truly capable of. So in a nutshell, I want to place highly at the state meet in all of my events.
**********
With only ten days remaining until the beginning of the state meet, there's bound to be a little anxiety for Paul Miller--and a whole bunch of other seniors as well--as they stare down the hopes and dreams of their entire high school career in three short days at Jeffco Stadium. Make your plans now to be among those attending.