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Name and Liaison to Which Team

Rick Geier, Professor of Chemistry

Men's Soccer

What I like about being a Faculty Liaison

Being a faculty liaison affords me the opportunity to be more involved with the team than I would be as a casual observer at matches. It is enjoyable to attend occasional team functions, to learn more about the men's soccer program, and to serve as a resource to the student-athletes. I played soccer in college and I have had a number of men's soccer players in my chemistry courses over the years. Thus, it is neat to be able to have a more formal relationship with the team.

An influential person in my career

It is difficult to limit my answer to just one. My club soccer coach was a terrific teacher and mentor who I have come to appreciate more and more over the years. He was a gentleman, he had high standards for our play and conduct, and he was kind and encouraging. My undergraduate faculty adviser took me under her wing, and sparked my initial interest in chemistry and scientific research. My postdoctoral adviser played a key role in my development as a scientist. In addition to experimentation, I learned a great deal about manuscript preparation, grant proposal writing, caring for a lab, and managing a research group. I also benefited a great deal from his enthusiasm toward research, and toward learning broadly.

Favorite hero

Underdog

Favorite possession

Photos

Favorite sports memory

The 1980 Olympic men's hockey team victory over the Soviet Union. I was 10 years old at the time and playing youth hockey. The Olympic team had a player from my hometown and future high school. I remember being glued to the radio, ear inches from the speaker during the game (the game was not televised live).

Favorite magazine, hard-copy or online

Time Magazine. I also enjoy the BBC News website.

Favorite music type, singer or group

Rush.

Favorite movie

The original Star Wars movie.

Favorite quote

"Hard luck!" This is something that my club soccer coach would say when the idea was there but the execution was a little off.