Gerald Geist: a Duck Parent

Gerald Geist
New York City area

Gerald's son Tyler is studying business at the UO.

How did Tyler decide the UO was right for him?
My son was looking for a school with a strong business program and real school spirit.

What sort of impression did visiting the UO campus have on your son?
After the first trip, Tyler felt the school was appealing from a physical standpoint. That was one reason he decided to apply. Then he went back when school was in session, and that really sealed the deal. He noticed the kids were wearing Oregon paraphernalia, which was evidence of school spirit. He thought students looked happy.

How did you feel about your student’s decision to attend the UO?
It’s not the traditional path that young people here in New York take, going out to the great Northwest. You have to be able to take chances and be comfortable with yourself to do that sort of thing. Oregon has a lot of the things Tyler was looking for. I think the school has been pretty easy for him to navigate. Tyler has disability issues, and met with Disability Services and figured that out. We were concerned, like all parents, about how Tyler would adjust during the first term. He did great.

How have you stayed in touch with Tyler across the country?
Mainly by phone and with text messages. We also try to get out there twice a year to visit.

What is your overall impression of the UO?
We felt the UO was very together and really reached out to parents. It was not impersonal; we were very impressed with it. Eugene is a really neat place. It has all the services of a suburban area so students are never going to want for anything, yet it is much smaller, much easier to get around, with good restaurants. It’s less expensive, and if you like the outdoors, you can’t do better.

Any words of wisdom you would like to pass on to other parents?
Visit the school, learn about the programs and opportunities to find resources and ways to assimilate. Get involved with the Parents association so you are connected with the school.