Finding Greatness: Nicholas Germundsen

Author: News Bureau
Posted: Monday, March 18, 2024 12:00 AM
Categories: Pressroom | School of Health and Natural Sciences | Finding Greatness

Cochran, GA

Air Force Cadet Maj. Nicholas Germundsen, right.

After earning his bachelor’s in Rehabilitation Science from MGA, Nicholas Germundsen is pursuing a master’s degree and a commission as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Full Name:  Nicholas B. Germundsen.

Age: 22.

Hometown:  Warner Robins.

Residence: Valdosta.

Current Job: United States Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps cadet.

MGA Degree: “I earned a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science from MGA in 2022 and am working on my Master of Public Administration with a minor in Aerospace Studies at Valdosta State University while I pursue a commission as an officer in the USAF.” 

Tell us about your career path and some highlights of your professional life.  

“When graduating high school in 2020, I set my sights on becoming a medical professional. I chose the Rehabilitation Science program because it offered a unique blend of healthcare knowledge and practical skills that aligned with my desire to serve others. After earning my B.S. in Rehabilitation Science in 2022, I shifted my desire to serve others in a different direction: the military. While working towards a commission into the USAF, the Air Force has given me endless opportunities. I have received invaluable leadership training, professional development, and opportunities to travel all over the United States. One of the most notable highlights of my career so far is the study abroad trip I am going on this summer to Normandy, France - a trip that I would never have been able to take if it weren’t for the Air Force.” 

Describe how your Middle Georgia State experiences benefit you now in your career and personal life.

“Even after deciding to pursue a career in the Air Force, the experience and knowledge I obtained through the Rehabilitation Science program have benefited me tremendously. The military is notoriously physically demanding. That said, my understanding of the human body and the role of rehabilitation has proven invaluable. From providing my peers with personalized exercise plans to enhance their physical performance to sharing the importance of rehabilitation and exercise as a whole, the knowledge I obtained from this program has allowed me to impact my peers at Detachment 172 positively. MGA and the Rehabilitation Science program laid a firm foundation for my professional career. As I continue to grow in my military career, I look forward to further leveraging my education and experiences to contribute to the well-being and readiness of my fellow airmen.”

What advice do you have for students now studying at MGA?

“If I could share any advice, it would be these three words:  intentionality, humility, and consistency. First, in everything you do, be intentional. Make deliberate choices that reflect what is essential to the people around you, your organization, and yourself. Always have a reason behind your actions, and genuinely believe in that reason. Take time to understand the implications of your actions. Secondly, always remain humble. Remind yourself that you do not know everything. You’re not perfect, and you should not expect anyone else to be perfect. Allow yourself and others to make mistakes and to learn from those mistakes. Lastly, consistently show up and strive for excellence in everything you do. Consistently show the people around you that you care about them and that you care about what you’re doing. Consistently be intentional in your actions and humble in your demeanor.”

The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Air Force, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.