For Garrett Rotzien B’26, learning at Saint Mary’s has been about much more than academics. Growing up as the younger of two siblings, he was often guided by his older brother when navigating life’s early milestones and obstacles. Attending Saint Mary’s has given him greater independence and improved his problem-solving skills, making him feel more confident for life after graduating in May.
“College was a great time for me to be independent and figure out how to live life on my own,” he said. “College is about more than preparing you for the workforce; it’s for teaching you how to live and balance your life.”
Rotzien quickly discovered the importance of maintaining balance, as he is involved in multiple clubs and organizations while double majoring in accounting and business analytics. Rotzien is the president of the Student Senate, a commentator for the club hockey team, and a member of the Accounting Club and the Sustainability Club. Despite his busy schedule, he still finds time to stay active. In his free time, you can find him playing disc golf, basketball, volleyball, or golf, going to the gym, or on a walk with friends. He feels college has provided him with the freedom to explore his interests, both academic and personal.
Growing in his faith has been another important part of Rotzien’s journey at Saint Mary’s. He has found a community that shares his faith while also helping grow it.
“Saint Mary’s has allowed me to easily spend more time with people who care about religion in the way I do,” he said. “I have seen some of my close friends get confirmed into the Catholic Church and been present through the process.”
The connections he has made over the last four years are what have made his time on the Winona Campus most enjoyable. Speaking to students and faculty with different perspectives and backgrounds has given him a more well-rounded learning experience. He especially appreciates the close bonds he formed with his professors.
“They are all so supportive and give me great insight to help me in the real world,” he said. “I was truly able to learn new concepts and topics because my professors care deeply about my future as a professional.”
After graduation, Rotzien plans to move to Minneapolis and get a job in accounting or business intelligence to get a more specific understanding of what he wants to do. Much like in his time at Saint Mary’s, he wants to take advantage of the opportunities ahead of him and explore different career options within his field throughout the Midwest.
