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Ryan Majerus
'06 Political Science |
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For Iowa Hawkeye football player Ryan Majerus, the term "student-athlete" is more than just a description of his role at The University of Iowa -- it's a statement of his University's values. "At Iowa, 'student' comes first and 'athlete' second," Ryan says. Noting that he was recruited as an Oelwein, Iowa, high school player by universities such as Iowa State, Wisconsin, Air Force, and Northwestern, he says he chose the UI because it offered a great all-around college experience that the others couldn't match. "The overall package that Iowa offers student-athletes is unique," the Hawkeye tight end and political science major says. "It's great academics and an elite football program combined." Of course, growing up a lifelong Hawkeye fan and going to games at Kinnick Stadium all his life gave the UI a definite edge in the recruiting battle. And the fact that his parents, John Majerus of Vancouver, Washington (1985 G), and Kimberly Majerus of Oelwein (1983 G), are both UI alumni (with physical therapy degrees) didn't hurt the UI's chances, either. Once he got to Iowa, he worked hard both in the Hawkeye uniform and in the UI classrooms. He plans on attending law school after graduating in December 2006 -- and of course, he hopes that will be at the UI. Throughout his experiences as a student-athlete, Ryan has learned just how important private gifts of all sizes are to helping him and his fellow Hawkeyes succeed and excel. From endowed scholarships (he's received several, including the Bob and Dorothy Otto Football Scholarship in 2005-06) to facilities support (such as the Kinnick Stadium renovation) to annual I-Club memberships (which sustain scholarships, sports-medicine services, equipment maintenance, and other vital support systems), and more, he knows that contributors are key to keeping the Hawkeyes competitive at home and on the road. "Donors and fans have helped create an atmosphere at the UI that is second to none, the best education and playing at the highest level. There's no place like Iowa, and it's a true honor to represent the University and all the people who are a part of making it great," Ryan says. "It's life-changing, and I'm very thankful."
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