Wangerin balances athletics, academics on path to occupational therapy

Over the past four years, Liv Wangerin has defined what it means to be a standout student-athlete at Montana Tech. Her leadership on the court helped propel the Orediggers to a historic Frontier Conference title–the program’s first  since 1983—cementing her legacy in Montana Tech sports history.

Beyond the court, Wangerin dedicated over 100 hours shadowing local occupational therapists and maintaining a stellar academic record, landing her on the Chancellor’s List, Dean’s List, and Honor Roll for the University as well as Academic All-District. As she prepares to graduate on May 9 and head to the University of Montana’s Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program, Wangerin reflects on a college journey defined by growth, balance, and discovery.

A native of Plentywood, Montana, Wangerin didn’t arrive at Montana Tech with a clear career path in mind. In fact, she only discovered occupational therapy toward the end of her bachelor’s degree.

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do till last year,” Wangerin said.

What began as a general interest in exercise science and the human body evolved through hands-on coursework and real-world experience. Classes like anatomy, kinesiology, and strength and conditioning helped solidify her direction.

“I really enjoyed anatomy, especially the lab and the hands-on activities,” she said.

Outside the classroom, Wangerin gained valuable experience through shadowing and an internship at Strength and Motion in Butte, where she worked alongside professionals in outpatient rehabilitation. She also explored pediatric and school-based occupational therapy settings, gaining a broad view of the field.

Balancing those experiences with the demands of collegiate athletics was no small feat. As a member of the Oredigger basketball team, Wangerin managed a packed schedule of practices, travel, and games alongside rigorous coursework.

“It is a lot of work, just a lot of time management,” she said.

That discipline paid off, both academically and athletically. Her time on the court culminated in a conference championship season, while her academic success positioned her for acceptance into a competitive doctoral program.

Despite her many accomplishments, Wangerin says the most meaningful part of her time at Montana Tech has been the people and the sense of community.

“I just love Butte and Montana Tech,” she said. “The community is so tight knit, and I’ve met so many great people along the way.”

Coming from a small town, she found that Montana Tech offered the perfect environment.

“Even though it’s big, it feels like a small town to me,” she said.

As she looks ahead to graduate school in Missoula this fall, Wangerin is excited for what’s next, even as she acknowledges the transition.

“I’ve loved every moment of it,” she said. “There’s nowhere I would have rather had my undergrad experience.”

While she’s still exploring which specialty she’ll pursue within occupational therapy, she’s confident in her choice and the opportunities ahead.

Her parting word to students still finding their way? Keep it simple.

“Don’t stress about it. Just take your time and explore all the options.”