Martha Gergasko
Senior, biology
Hometown?
Boonton, New Jersey.
Why did you come to UM?
I needed a change. I grew up in a very metropolitan area. When it came time to pick schools, I wanted to go West – to go on an adventure. I was interested in studying zoology, found three schools out here and visited. I liked the area of UM the best.
What surprised you when you first arrived on campus?
The friendliness of everybody. On the East Coast, cars don’t stop for you at crosswalks.
They speed up.
Yeah, so I wasn’t expecting it, just because of where I grew up.
What’s the strangest place you’ve been to in Montana?
Geraldine, Montana. My boyfriend’s family has a farm out there. It was really weird to me that nobody locks their doors. I lock doors without even thinking about it.
What’s the best assignment you’ve had at UM?
In my freshman biology lab I had to write a short report on something we were covering. At that time we were studying aerobic and anaerobic processes, so I was able to write a paper on alcohol fermentation. Basically I wrote a paper about beer.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
I’m a night owl forced to be an early bird.
What’s the biggest accomplishment in your life?
So far it is getting the job that I have in the Direct Connect office. They do tech support for the Division of Student Affairs. I have always been really shy and it has been hard for me to break out. But because of my job I’ve learned to interact with lots of different people. A year ago this interview would not be happening.
What is the highest cell phone bill you’ve ever had?
One time we switched plans and they didn’t add on the $5 per month unlimited texting to my new phone. Of course I had been texting like mad. The bill was around $130 on top of the normal $50 per month charge.
Are you part of any online communities?
I have a MySpace account and a Facebook account. I was really reluctant. I spend all day on computers and don’t want to go home and be on the computer more.
What is your greatest hidden talent?
I’m really good at funny dancing.
Uh, what does that mean?
Like doing the robot.
What’s your favorite all-night study location?
The library until it closes at two o’clock [in the morning]. I can’t study past two.
What is the best thing about Missoula?
Everyone is very laid-back and open to other people’s ideas. Also, everyone here is so nice to all the kids who are in college here.
-- Interview and photography by Winona Sorensen