Commencement 2022: Javier Garcia

Javier Garcia is an undergraduate student studying kinesiology and will graduate in June. Originally from McMinnville, Ore., he plans to remain a Beaver and will pursue his master’s degree in adapted physical education this fall.

During his undergraduate tenure at Oregon State, Javier volunteered with IMPACT and developed meaningful relationships with participants. He was especially helpful as a dual-language speaker, connecting with participants who live in households where Spanish is their primary language.

“I’ve seen the participants he works with beam with excitement when they enter the program on Friday evenings, and I know he has a strong influence on their enthusiasm,” says Clinical Assistant Professor Jen Beamer.

“Academically, Javier stands out as a strong and thoughtful student. He is motivated and curious – two wonderful qualities in a student!”

We asked Javier about his time in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences and his plans for the future.

What inspired you to study kinesiology?

Initially, I was drawn to the science behind our bodies’ movements in sports and other activities. I then gradually began steering toward finding ways to make physical activity fun for everyone – where you can have fun participating but forget that it’s physical activity, while simultaneously reaping the wide range of benefits.

What are you most proud of from your time in the CPHHS?

I’m most proud of the connections my college has allowed me to make, the potential I continue to see within myself, and the different connections and relationships I have formed during my time here.

Have you received any scholarships or assistance during your time here?

I was an Oregon Promise recipient and used this to dual-enroll in Linn-Benton Community College and Oregon State University. Additionally, I also received a private culinary arts scholarship from McMinnville High School, which I used during my time at LBCC.

What are the most memorable lessons you’ve learned as a student?

My most memorable lessons revolve around time and stress management and how these two almost act as a linear relationship. It was of high importance for me to realize and learn this in order to effectively get my best work done in a timely fashion.

What’s next? What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan on remaining a Beaver for one more year and pursuing grad school with the master of adapted physical education program (MAPE).

How will you improve the health of your community?

I plan on improving the health of my community by teaching young children just how fun physical activity and exercise can be in an inclusive environment so they may begin to reap the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle without even realizing it! This, in turn, can be just as impactful as it was for me.

What does health and well-being mean to you?

For me, being healthy is a state in which physical, mental and social well-being are at levels that I am constantly content with and actively maintaining.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Learning from opportunities is great, but when you’re struggling or misunderstanding subjects, topics, classes or whatever the case may be, it’s of equal, if not greater, importance to realize it and have time to reflect afterward. That way, you can turn it into a learning experience to set yourself up for success moving forward.