For friends who've tried catching Gophers center Jon Christenson's attention on Facebook and Twitter recently, apologies — the pre-med student swore off social media a long time ago.
Basically, the only time he's on the Internet is when he's studying for his biochemistry degree at the McNamara Academic Center. And these days, he's busy preparing for the Aug. 29 season opener against UNLV.
Christenson, who walked on with the Gophers out of Minnetonka High School and crashes in his brother's basement to save money, has a theory about time management.
"I believe that everything you do — mentally, spiritually and physically — should be to get yourself better," he said. "And nothing leaves you neutral. Either, it'll push you toward your goals, or it'll push you away from your goals. I just believe that Facebook and Twitter are a distraction for me."
Christenson turned 21 in June and is entering his third year at the U. He's on track to get his undergraduate degree in May and plans to spend the following two years getting a master's degree in public health. After that, it's on to med school.
In his family, that will just make him part of the club.
His father, Kurt, has a doctorate in physics. His mother, Margie, was a double major — elementary education and Biblical studies. His older brother, James, has his undergraduate degree from Minnesota and is working toward a doctorate in biochemistry.
The Christenson brothers have an aunt and uncle who are both physicians. Their paternal grandfather had a doctorate in ministry, and their paternal grandmother, Evelyn Christenson, was a best-selling author.