Former Yeomen linebacker Sam Hobi '02 had one of the most decorated careers in school history. What's all the more impressive is that Hobi rewrote the defensive record books in only two short years, after transferring from Snow Junior College in Ephraim, Utah.
Hobi departed Oberlin as the school's all-time sacks leader with 18 (since broken by Chris Pisani '07 and Clay Eaton '13) and still holds school records for tackles for loss in a season with 24 (2001) and most sacks in a game with 5 (vs. Denison, 2001). Hobi is currently third all-time in career tackles with 250 (averaging 125 per season in the crimson and gold). He was named an All-American in 2001 by D3Football.com and was a Verizon Academic All-American that year as well.
Hobi graduated in the spring of 2002, majoring in Economics.
On career after Oberlin and current job…
I moved to the East Coast to work for General Electric Capital after graduating.
I most recently moved to GE Capital Bank in Salt Lake City after ten years on the East Coast in Mergers and Acquisitions and corporate finance. In the bank, I run operational and strategic risk.
On life after (and briefly during) Oberlin….
Family: Four kids (one born while at Oberlin)
Career: 10 years at GE Capital
Education: Executive MBA, Columbia University, NYC
Non-profit: continued church activity; assisting the leprosy afflicted in India via Rising Star Outreach
Activity: staying in shape, weight training, marathon, triathlons
On what a defines an Oberlin education…
Rigorous liberal arts curriculum and a stellar reputation stand out. Small class sizes taught by accessible faculty with serious standards attracted me. Oberlin fits for students who take seriously their education and want to better the world. Although not unique in this regard, it's a special place to foster the mind with an eye towards tomorrow. While deciding on schools, I learned a distinguishing factor of Oberlin from a New York Times review, which I needed to experience to fully grasp: “Oberlin College is academically intense, yet not competitive.” Although a paradox to some, that well describes academic life here.
On the most memorable class he had at Oberlin …
Honor's economics seminar. The challenge of the testing, research, writing, and thesis defense made it an incomparable undergraduate learning experience. The year long, purposeful access to faculty and intellectual bonding amongst my honor's seminar colleagues made it both dynamic and personally enriching.
On playing for Coach Ramsey…
Coach Ramsey's easy, affable nature put players at ease. Coach worked hard, expected his players to work hard, yet always seemed to wear a smile. It was fun. Coach grew a lot in my two years at Oberlin and led the program through an uncertain transition period. He maintained a steady, thoughtful approach to the game that has been recognized deservingly.
On being an Oberlin College Football Alum…
First, I'm proud of my time as a Yeoman. I'm grateful to have played with and under some fine men. Second, I look back trusting that I did some good for those around me during my tenure. Considering these factors together makes me feel I was part of something meaningful. And lastly, I am a member of a rich, historical football tradition that remains distinguished from most programs in the nation.
On prospective football players deciding if Oberlin is right for them…
The Oberlin academic experience rivals any in the nation. The faculty is approachable and excited to see the eager student succeed. The football program gives you a true college football experience without the accompanying politics and pressures of a big-program. You'll be in a position to contribute, make an impact, and form some lasting memories. What more could you want?
