Featured Senior: Brian Bauman ’12

Major: history and political science
Minor: international relations
Hometown: Findlay

Brian Bauman, a history and political science major with an international relations minor, says he chose The University of Findlay for its reputation as “a premier private school.” Now, as Bauman anticipates graduation in spring 2012, he is confident in his choice.

“I feel I made the right choice,” said Bauman, a native of Findlay. “Upon arrival to The University of Findlay, I was impressed with the quality of professors and their teaching abilities.”
According to Bauman, one professor in particular helped shape his college experience: Robert Postic, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science.

“His teaching style and advice over the years have made me the student that I am today,” said Bauman. “(He is) a teacher, mentor and friend.”

Other faculty contributed to Bauman’s experience by “bending over backward” to assist him with internship opportunities. As a student at the University, Bauman participated in an internship in the office of Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan, an experience he says he “thoroughly enjoyed.”

Bauman sought additional experience by joining extracurricular activities related to his major and his interests. He served as president of the Political Science Club as well as chair of the UF College Republicans. These organizations “provided an opportunity to meet local, state and national political figures,” said Bauman.In his leadership roles with the Political Science Club and College Republicans, Bauman said he “made an earnest attempt to bridge the gap between the University and the community.” He was involved in co-sponsoring a state representative debate held on campus with the Political Science Club; a Findlay mayoral forum also held on campus; sponsored by the Political Science Club and the Findlay chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW); and a Town Hall meeting with Congressman Jordan.

“(These events) hosted on campus are an attempt to better educate the student body as a whole, as well as the community, on the issues and politics of today,” said Bauman.
Despite involvement in a number of other events, Bauman says one of his best memories of his time at the University is when Irving Roth, Holocaust survivor, visited campus to speak about his life and experiences.

“I enjoyed the time he spent with the UF community, and I was afforded the opportunity to have dinner with him afterward,” said Bauman. “He is truly an insightful individual, and it was an experience I will never forget.” Bauman’s advice for incoming freshman: “get involved with clubs that involve your career path. Take the time to stop and listen, and get to know your professors,” said Bauman. “You won’t regret it.”

Looking toward his future, Bauman says he has gained experience that will help him as a professional after he graduates. “At UF, we are offered a well-rounded education. I think that will help tremendously in my career path,” said Bauman. “The relationships I have formed at UF will facilitate that endeavor as well.”

Written By Hannah Wurm ’11