By Gustavus Geography major Brian Zabel (’14).
Growing up in St. Paul, MN, Dr. Ryan Bergstrom started his journey to Gustavus after graduating from nearby Mahtomedi High School. He then spent some time at Lakewood Community College/Century College where he pursued a business degree. During his pursuit of a business degree, Ryan spent several years working for the telephone company AT&T, but it was through this work that he realized the business track wasn’t for him.
Dr. Bergstrom’s true passion was finally sparked during his last year at Century College when he enrolled in a physical geography course and became very interested in the subject. Dr. Bergstrom took this newfound interest in geography to Montana State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in earth science with an emphasis in physical geography. Dr. Bergstrom decided to continue his academic career at Montana State University and received his Master of Science in earth sciences, with his study focused on the spatial distribution and economic importance of hunting in southwestern Montana. After the completion of his master’s degree, Professor Bergstrom continued to Kansas State University to receive his Ph.D. in geography. Ryan’s area of study and thesis while completing his doctoral degree was “Sustainable Development in the Amenity-Based Communities of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.” It was after the completion of his doctoral degree in 2012 that Dr. Bergstrom became a member of the Gustavus community as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Geography.
At Gustavus, Dr. Bergstrom has taught a variety of classes and has helped increase many students’ interests in the study of geography. In his first year of teaching during the 2012-2013 academic school year, Dr. Bergstrom taught Weather and Climate and Geographic Information Systems as well as a special topics course on Sustainable Rural Livelihoods. His first January term course was entitled Wilderness: Recreation and Resources, which will again be offered during the January 2014 term. In addition to Weather and Climate and Geographic Information Systems, Dr. Bergstrom will also be teaching Geographic Information Systems II during the spring 2014 semester.
Since his arrival, Dr. Bergstrom has grown very fond of Gustavus. He has witnessed the quality of students and outstanding academic atmosphere Gustavus is known for and is looking forward to continuing his teaching career on campus long into the future. In his spare time away from teaching, Ryan enjoys hunting, fly-fishing, hiking, and photography.
Thank you, Dr. Bergstrom, for your service to the Gustavus community and additional knowledge you provide to the Geography Department!