Cieran Plancer-Murphy’s journey is one defined not just by achievement, but by resilience, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to his passions. A member of the Class of 2026, Plancer-Murphy was recruited to Drew for track and field and cross country, bringing with him a lifelong dedication to the sport and an equally impressive academic drive.
Now a double major in computer science and cybersecurity, with minors in creative arts and technology, Plancer-Murphy is charting a path that blends technical expertise with creative exploration. His academic journey has already reached milestones few undergraduates achieve.
“My favorite moment was when I learned I was the first undergraduate student to begin graduate school classes at NYU in the dual degree program as a junior,” he said. “I was also informed I would be one of the first students to graduate Drew as a double major in computer science and cybersecurity.”
Beyond the classroom, Plancer-Murphy has immersed himself in hands-on learning opportunities. He is an Action Scholar, participated in the Drew Summer Science Institute during his sophomore summer focusing on cybersecurity and has completed internships in his field, building a strong foundation for his future career.
Among his academic experiences, one course stands out: Computer Architecture with Professor Michlin.
“He is extremely knowledgeable in the field of computer science and cybersecurity and made the topics so interesting,” Plancer-Murphy said, emphasizing the impact of engaging faculty on his educational experience.
But Plancer-Murphy’s story is perhaps most powerful when it comes to his relationship with running. As a lifelong athlete, he has been competing in cross country and track since the age of five. Over the years, the sport has become more than competition—it has been a source of stability and personal growth for him.
“It has helped relieve anxiety and given me a sense of accomplishment,” he explained.
His athletic career includes competing in the Junior Olympics and earning recognition as a 12-time high school varsity athlete. Being recruited to Drew was a moment of pride, especially after the challenges he had already faced.
“I was very proud when Coach Zach Mower called me my junior year of high school to officially recruit me,” he recalled. “I had gone through two stress fractures and developed compartment syndrome. I never thought I would be back to a level enough to be recruited.”
That condition, however, did not disappear. Compartment syndrome is a lifelong challenge, bringing significant pain when training exceeds certain limits. Despite this, he remained determined to continue competing at a high level.
Heading into his freshman year, he followed a strict training regimen set by his surgeon to prevent reinjury. But unexpected changes complicated his transition to collegiate athletics. When his recruiting coach stepped away and new staff joined, Plancer-Murphy found himself navigating a system that no longer fully understood his needs as an athlete managing a chronic condition. Eventually, he was placed on the injury list and sidelined for the season.
Faced with difficult circumstances, Plancer-Murphy made the decision to step away from the team and continue running independently, a choice that reflects both self-awareness and perseverance.
Even now, his connection to the sport remains strong.
“I still imagine what it would be like to wear my Drew singlet when I compete,” he said.
Plancer-Murphy’s story is not one of a traditional collegiate athletic path, but it is no less meaningful. It is a story of persistence through injury, of adapting when plans change and of continuing to pursue both academic and personal excellence despite setbacks.
In every sense, Plancer-Murphy embodies what it means to be driven—not just by success, but by resilience.
Gillian Sampson is a graduate student in the Masters of Education program.
