Great Starts: Owen Geddes ’26

Owen Geddes ’26 

Psychology major, business administration minor 
Pursuing his doctorate degree in occupational therapy

How are you spending your time since classes ended at semester?

I have been working full-time as a Level II inpatient pharmacy technician for Mary Washington Hospital Trauma Center. I am beginning my three-year doctor of occupational therapy (OTD) program at Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Health Professions in hopes of specializing in neurorehabilitation.

What made you choose St. Norbert College?

I chose St. Norbert College because of its culture, first and foremost. I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and experience new things. Coming from Virginia, from a different time zone, this was very important to me. Being able to sit in on a class lecture and walk around freely on campus during an overnight visit allowed me to get a sense of the community and campus culture. It is welcoming, hospitable, and a place where I could call home for the next three to four years of my life. Another important aspect was the opportunity to continue swimming at the collegiate level while also being able to be involved in clubs and organizations.

How have staff and faculty enhanced your experience?

Faculty and staff helped push me to grow both academically and personally. Professors like Dr. Ngo (Psychology) challenged me in ways that went beyond learning, memorization, and thinking outside the box. They pushed me to truly understand the root of the material, apply it, and make meaningful connections to real-world circumstances. This kind of rigor helped prepare me for the next step in healthcare and medicine. Beyond the classroom, my coaches and advisors were supportive, and they always advocated for students’ best interests. I felt that St. Norbert College created an environment where I felt firmly supported throughout my time, with room to progressively build confidence in my abilities as an individual.

What are you most proud of from your time here?

Coming in from out of state, I took a risk on a completely new environment, and it was the best decision I made, as it has shaped a part of who I am today. As I look back, I am most proud of how much I grew in three-and-a-half years. Like many of my friends and peers, I balanced academics, continued my commitment to athletics, engaged in campus groups, and most importantly, built lifelong friendships and relationships.