Gretchen Geibel
Year: First year
Hometown and Your Favorite Thing About It: The greatest thing about Butler is that it’s a medium-sized town with a very home-y feel, but at the same time I’m less than an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock, Cranberry…lots of fun places!
Areas of Study and How You Chose Them:
Biology with a minor in Spanish. I was actually planning on being an English major but due to a mistake in my schedule in my Junior year of high school, I ended up taking AP Bio instead of the suggested Honors Physics, and I fell in love with it. As far as the Spanish goes, I’ve been taking Spanish classes since 8th grade. If I didn’t continue with it, I’d feel like a part of me was missing.
The #1 reason you like studying Science at Chatham?
Studying science at Chatham has a much more personal feel than you’ll find at your typical state school. Instead of being one of 200 students in my Gen. Chem. class, I’m one of about 30. My professors not only knew me by name in just a few classes but are also willing to sit down with me and talk about anything and everything…science related or not. They love to teach and love to mentor even more.
Favorite Place on Chatham’s Campus and Why:
The labyrinth is hands down my favorite place. Whenever I’m sad, stressed, or confused…I’m always drawn to it. Something about walking it is so calming.
Activities/Interests: Singing, acting, reading
Favorite Book:
James Herriot’s series of veterinary books.
Favorite TV Show:
That ‘70s Show. Hands down. My brother and I watched all 200 episodes the summer before I came to college. It’s a classic.
Favorite Movie:
I don’t know if I could ever pick a favorite movie. I’ve seen so many. Maybe Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind?
The best part of performing with the Chatham Choir?
One of the best experiences I’ve had performing with the Chatham Choir was at the Candlelight service. The chapel decorations were gorgeous, the readings were spiritual, and the music we sang tied it all together.
A favorite piece you’ve worked on as a Hemi and Why:
One of my favorite pieces I’ve worked on thus far with the Hemi’s was “The Irish Blessing.” It’s such a classic, and the arrangement we sang was multifaceted and beautiful.
You have the chance to collaborate with three musicians/bands of your choice. Who do you pick?
Three artists of my choice? That’s so tough. I think I’d have to say Sara Bareilles, Michael Buble, and Mumford and Sons.
Dream Job:
My dream job is to be what I fondly call a “crazy gorilla person.” What I really mean is that I would love to be one of those people like Jane Goodall who goes out into the jungle to live with and study the behavior of gorillas. They’re my absolute favorite animal.
Why You Chose Chatham:
Like I mentioned before, Chatham just has this different feel to it. Everyone always smiles and says hello, teachers talk to you about your career and your hobbies alike, and everyone accepts you for the woman you are. It’s this cute little campus tucked away in the heart of the big city…it’s the best of both worlds. What’s not to love?