Ryan O’Shaughnessy, physics major, mathematics and Catholic studies minors, 3.77 GPA  

O’Shaughnessy is from Apple Valley, Minn. He has been a tour guide, Tommie Ambassador, Murray Hall night access assistant, Physics department student researcher, Ireland Hall Council representative and resident adviser. He also organized faith-related hall events like making Lavinburgers on Sunday nights. O’Shaughnessy also got involved with St. Paul’s Outreach (SPO) and Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which helped him in converting to Catholicism. He also helped found the UST Irish Society.

O’Shaughnessy has been on the Dean’s List for five out the six semesters that he has completed at St. Thomas.

O’Shaughnessy said an interesting fact about himself is during his sophomore year of high school, he grew his hair out past his shoulders.

“(I) looked like one of the brothers from Hanson,” he said.

Before students graduate, O’Shaughnessy suggested they “take time to seriously examine faith and the ultimate meaning and significance of your own life. Earnestly and sincerely seek the answers to these important questions and talk to people about them, especially seeking the guidance of a priest. Read Luke 12:13-21.”

After graduation, O’Shaughnessy said he is not exactly sure of his plans, “but most signs are pointing to me becoming a full-time college missionary with Saint Paul’s Outreach. I’d be working full-time on a college campus playing a major role in coordinating the outreach on that campus, as well as possibly leading a household of Christian men.”

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