Faculty supported student athlete’s schedule-juggling and success
Name: Jeremy Swartz ’25
Majors: Chemistry and Mathematics
What drew you to Naz?
Being from Rochester, I never saw myself attending Nazareth. A liberal arts school without the majors I was looking for? Absolutely not. But hockey led me here, and looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Over these four years, I met my best friends, had incredible experiences on and off the ice, and learned lessons that shaped me into the man I am today.
What’s next after Naz?
Working as a laboratory technician at a start-up biotech company called Phlotonics here in Rochester.
What are you most looking forward to in your life’s work? How has Naz prepared you for success?
I am most looking forward to applying my problem-solving skills and chemical and mathematical knowledge to real-world problems to find solutions. Nazareth has prepared me for success by forcing me to be the best version of myself every day.
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| Jeremy Swartz — along with fellow students Joey Nettles, Aaron Uzelmeier, and Isiah McMurray '24 and Professor Josh Newby — is a co-author of research published in the Journal of Molecular Spectroscopy, February 2025, conducted at Nazareth. |
Best experiences?
Nazareth taught me how to be a leader. Not just wearing the fancy title, but in action. I learned that leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room or just telling people what to do. It’s about earning respect and pushing your teammates to be better.
There were times when we took tough losses, and everyone was looking around for answers. That’s when I learned that being a leader means stepping up even when you don’t have all the answers. It’s showing up early, putting in the work, and holding yourself accountable so that others do the same. We had a couple of tough seasons the past two years, and I couldn't be prouder of my men for never throwing in the towel.
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What lessons will you take with you from your Nazareth years?
No one cares what you've accomplished up to now. The only thing that matters is what you are willing to do next.
Who’s had a great impact on you?
One faculty member who had an impact on me is Dr. Tajc. He was my academic advisor and I also had him for a few science classes. From my first meeting with Dr. Tajc, he was in my corner helping me map out classes for every future semester. Being a double major and having hockey practice obligations mid-day, everyday, imposes significant scheduling challenges. Thanks to Dr. Tajc's dedication and understanding, I did not have to miss a single practice or team workout. This meant more to me than he could ever understand, and I am grateful. He also served as an excellent role model for any student in STEM through his profound understanding, structured classes, and no-nonsense attitude.
Part of a Class of 2025 profile series
