...the ability to be part of the Economics Management Fellows (EMF) program and the inaugural varsity wrestling team made OWU an obvious choice...
Name: Max Beard
Class Year: 2022
Major: Economics
How/Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose Ohio Wesleyan because I knew I wanted to attend a small liberal arts university where I could interact with professors in smaller, more personalized classes than a larger school could provide. Additionally, the ability to be part of the Economics Management Fellows (EMF) program and the inaugural varsity wrestling team made OWU an obvious choice.
How/Why did you choose your major?
When I arrived at OWU I thought I would be a marketing or management major, but had not thought seriously about economics. As a member of EMF, I was required to take Econ 110. I liked the topics we covered in this class and after exposure to an economics-based project in another course, I knew this was the right major for me.
Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
Given I started wrestling later than most athletes who compete collegiately, I did not have many options for other universities where I could wrestle. After talking to head coach Paul Reid, I knew wrestling for him at the college level was not an opportunity I could pass up.
What is your favorite memory on an Ohio Wesleyan team?
The brotherhood of the wrestling team is something I don’t think many other sports teams on campus have. Since arriving freshman year, there has been a strong nucleus of guys on the team that have continued to help this program grow. It is rewarding to see this program flourish and make new leaps every year.
Do you have any pre-event rituals or superstitions?
Before a match, I am working on focusing on what I can control instead of worrying about potential outcomes outside of my power. I try to breathe, visualize, and utilize self-talk, but hopefully not in a superstitious way.
What is an accomplishment that you are proud of in your sport?
It has been rewarding to be a core member of the inaugural wrestling program and be a part of its growth every year. By exhibiting strong leadership skills and communicating well with recruits, I feel I have been one of the several athletes that have helped elevate our program to new levels each year.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After a successful internship as a summer analyst at Bank of America, I will be returning full time as a Rates and FX Origination Analyst on the San Francisco desk. I am excited for the opportunity to work for such an amazing team.
If you could visit another time, when would it be and why?
I am content living in the era I live in now. Despite all the problems and tension in the world, I am happy that we live in a society as advanced as ours is.
What is your spirit animal and why?
According to the internet, I best match with the hawk. I’d like to consider myself someone who is focused, determined, and has a strong spiritual awareness.
Which reality show would you like to star on and why?
As much as I hate to admit it, I am a big fan of The Bachelor. While I don’t know how successful I’d be as a contestant, it would be fun to join the show and cause some drama.
by Michaela Alfano '25
