Graduate Student Spotlight - Marie Geist

Name: Marie Geist

Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska

Graduate Institution:  University of Kansas

Degree you are working towards: Master’s in Higher Education Administration

Undergraduate Institution: University of Nebraska - Lincoln - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Education; English; Child, Youth and Family Studies

Why you chose your graduate institution?
I chose KU for several reasons, but the main two reasons were the students and the colleagues. I was intrigued by the amount of student activism on campus, and was excited for the opportunity to work at an institution with such passionate and driven students. I also felt genuinely welcomed and supported by my colleagues, classmates and the faculty. I knew that choosing KU would grant me numerous opportunities for growth and development, as well as the ability to learn from some of the best professionals in the area.

Why you wanted to go to graduate school?
Prior to attending graduate school, I worked as a Fraternity/Sorority Consultant and traveled to numerous institutions across the country. As part of my position, I met with Student Affairs professionals to discuss campus climate and current trends in their student population. I learned an incredible amount about the Student Affairs profession and the impact these professionals were having on their students. I was drawn to the idea of being able to work with students and have a meaningful impact on their lives.

What area(s) of Student Affairs interest you most and why?
I have a large interest in Student Conduct, which is where I hold my current Graduate Assistant position. I have a few other areas of interest, including: Leadership Development, Fraternity/Sorority Life, Academic Advising, and Women/Gender Equity Centers.

What are your hobbies?  
I love hiking, traveling, exercising with good music, reading for pleasure, drinking coffee, and trying new foods. I also enjoy crafting, hand-lettering/calligraphy, and spending time with loved ones.

If you could take a year off from work/school what would you do?  
If I had the time and resources I would love to spend time traveling to other countries learning about cultures and eating the local cuisine.