Garnett aims to make an impact on others

Max Garnett has made the most of his first four years at the University of North Georgia (UNG).

The men's soccer student-athlete served as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for two years. Garnett earned the NCAA Division II 50th Anniversary Scholarship. Most recently, his team won its first-ever Peach Belt Conference regular-season championship in fall 2025.

He has been an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Garnett has also been one of the most visible supporters of other teams at UNG — often painting up in blue and white with his fellow students at basketball games.

This May, Garnett is graduating with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology with a health and fitness concentration and preparing to enter UNG's Master of Science in kinesiology program. He has one year of eligibility left after suffering a sports hernia injury during his sophomore year, so he will get to suit up for the Nighthawks this fall while starting his graduate studies.

Garnett points to his sports hernia injury as an opportunity that allowed him to pour into others. Instead of focusing on the helpless feeling of not being able to take the field, he shifted his mindset.

"It gave me an ability to be a different kind of leader who puts his arm around teammates when they're down and encourages them," Garnett said.

The Auburn, Georgia, native takes a similar approach when it comes to supporting other teams at UNG. Instead of worrying about what others might think about his colorful cool spirit, Garnett embraces the chance to cheer for others.

"I can be present and willing to help and participate in any way," Garnett said. "It allows me to make a big impact on others."

His servant leadership comes naturally, and he hopes his open approach encourages others to leverage the connections they make with alumni and the community to prepare for their futures.

"College is exactly what you make it. My four years are a big testament to that," Garnett said. "The culture around UNG and Dahlonega as a whole provides an outlet to prepare you for everything."

Thanks to his preparation in the classroom, on the field and socially, Garnett knows he will be ready once he eventually enters the full-time workforce.

"The university has put me in challenging situations," Garnett said. "UNG has put me in position to influence others."