Matthew Kearney was drawn to MIT by the culture of its cross-country team. Growing up in Austin, Texas, he loved spending time outdoors and playing soccer, but by high school running had become his primary sport. While looking at colleges, he wanted to find a place with both strong academics and a strong team community. After an official visit with the cross-country team, he knew MIT was the place for him. “It’s been truly a defining part of my MIT experience,” says Kearney. “I love how quirky and fun and…