Most work days, there is a good chance you will find James Ropitzky in Union’s testing center. When he’s not on campus, he’ll be somewhere outside – summiting an Adirondack peak, driving down the fairway or spending time with friends.
Ropitzky grew up in Burnt Hills, N.Y. He is an active member of the Adirondack Mountain Club and likes fishing, skiing, soccer, golf and traveling with friends. He especially enjoys a good road trip.
He has been the occupational safety and health manager at Union since 2018. He works with environmental and government compliance but has been involved with all things COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
FIRST APP YOU LOOK AT IN THE MORNING:
Instagram or ESPN Fantasy
ONE BOOK YOU HAVE READ MULTIPLE TIMES:
“One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish” by Dr. Seuss (first book I learned to read). Since then, probably “Flags of Our Fathers” by James Bradley.
BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED:
My former soccer coach once told us, “No one who is great at something was always great at it.” Technically, this might not be advice but it has been something that has instilled a work ethic in me and stuck with me ever since.
FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS:
Messa Rink for hockey games or the Nott for a sunset
GO-TO BREAKFAST:
Probably Starbucks but Dutch wraps are a close second.
NETFLIX OR AMAZON:
Netflix, if hockey or football are not on
FAVORITE PODCAST:
“Chiclets” or “Crime Junkies” are my go-tos each week.
ONE SKILL YOU WISH YOU HAD:
Cooking. I can currently manage but being able to whip up restaurant quality meals each day would be pretty awesome.
BEST PART OF YOUR DAY:
During the week, probably going to the gym. During the weekends (especially in the winter), it’s without a doubt, après-ski.
LITTLE KNOWN FACT ABOUT YOU:
I have driven across the country with friends three times so far, and would 100 percent recommend it to anyone who is remotely interested. Flying to destinations is great, but getting to see all the small towns and places along the way make the trip much more memorable and a lot more fun.