Name? P.J. Obermeier
Age? 34
Major? Bio-science
What was the first thing that came to your mind as I introduced myself?
That’s and interesting question. I don’t know how to answer that.I guess the first thing that came to my mind was that you seemed very comfortable with yourself.
What do you want to do with your degree?
After I get my BA, I’m going to get a Masters in oriental medicine. I want to become a doctor. Of course that’s not a doctor in the traditional sense. I guess that’s pretty apparent by the fact that I’ll be practicing oriental medicine. Basically I’m not going to heal people; I’m going to help people heal themselves.
Where are you from?
I’m from all over. I have lived in Maine for the last twenty years, but I travel a lot.
Why are you here at USM?
My children live in Maine and I want to be close to them. So USM offers me an affordable education while still being close to my children.
What is your favorite thing about classes?
In the classes I’m taking, I find the topics interesting and the teachers challenging.
What is the worst thing about classes?
I think the hardest time I have about being in class is managing my time between all of them. Giving them all the time they need.
Do you have any roommates?
Nope. I love living alone. I am not a roommate person.
Are you a night owl or early bird?
I’m an early bird, definitely. Energy is highest in the morning, especially for me. I think you can accomplish most in the morning.
What do you do for fun?
I like to go to concerts for fun. Live music is one of the very simple pleasures in life. And I like to sew. And a lot of the times I like to sit outside and just watch people. I’m a major people watcher. I subjected myself to the mall yesterday. That was crazy.
What’s the worst dating experience you’ve ever had?
I dated this guy that was. How do I say it? His whole world was based on science and I’m a spiritual person so we totally clashed and it was horrible.
What is your favorite spot at USM?
My room is my favorite spot. I feel very safe and comfortable in my room.
Are you in any clubs, sports, or activities at USM?
Nope.
If you could start a club at USM, what would it be?
I guess it would have to be a one love club. We would just talk about how love is what it’s all about. And that would include love of yourself, love of your body, and love for your brothers and sisters, your fellow humans.
What would make this school even better?
I think this school would be even better if they honored diversity at all levels, including people’s spiritual beliefs. I mean, they honor people’s religious beliefs and academic paths, but they don’t honor spiritual paths and all that might entail. Like dietary beliefs. I’m a vegan and I choose not to put processed foods into my body. I eat a strictly raw organic diet because I believe that a path the enlightenment is purifying your body which in turn purifies the mind and spirit. I live in Portland hall and we’re required to buy a meal plan, and the caf? doesn’t provide me with all the proper food. I’m being forced to pay for something that I won’t use because I don’t believe in putting that food in my body. I’m going to appeal the meal plan requirement soon.
Any advice for USM students?
Put your heart in your hand and have at it. Be who you are.
What was the hardest thing about this interview?
Not climbing up on my soapbox and going off the deep end about my beliefs and frustrations.