Student-athlete Erin Simmons on high-speed academic track

Florida State University graduate student and track-and-field athlete Erin Elizabeth Simmons, 21, of Argyle, Texas, is an aspiring marine biologist and committed volunteer with a unique record of high, fast achievement.

Now, she can add "Rhodes Scholarship Finalist" to her awe-inspiring resume. Just as three other Florida State students have done since 2005, Simmons navigated the grueling, months-long Rhodes application and interview process to advance to the final round of competition for the distinguished prize, awarded annually to 32 U.S. college students from across the nation.

Though ultimately Simmons was not among the Rhodes Scholars for 2010 announced on Nov. 21, Florida State President T.K. Wetherell said…