Courtesy | Jason Gehrke
Jason Gehrke ’07 is an assistant professor of history at Hillsdale College. This interview has been edited for length and style.
If you were stranded on an island and could choose three items to have with you, what would they be?
The “Confessions” of Saint Augustine and, assuming that there would be a source of water and an animal population, a water purification device and KA-BAR knife.
Who is your favorite movie villain?
Cruella De Vil from “101 Dalmatians.”
If you were not a history professor, what would you be?
An amateur backpacker in Europe.
Who are you rooting for in the NFL playoffs?
My kids love the Packers on account of the fact that we lived in Milwaukee for a little bit. So I hope the Packers do well.
If you could get rid of one state, what would it be?
I don’t know that I would get rid of a state, but I would probably divide California into two states.
If you were a professional baseball player, what would your walk-up song be?
Probably “Jump” by Van Halen.
What is your favorite and least favorite food?
My favorite food is a PB&J because it is practical and good. My least favorite would have to be most things Chinese.
What are some hobbies that you have had?
I have enjoyed coin collecting, language study, and doing things outdoors.
You inherit $1 million: what is the first thing that comes to mind that you want to do with it?
I would love to have a small vineyard in France between Strasbourg and Kaysersberg in the Alsace region of France.
Aside from the regular options, what is your favorite pizza topping?
Artichokes.
Do you prefer dogs or cats?
Dogs. I had a couple of Australian Shepherds growing up.
What is your favorite musical genre?
I would just say the Beatles, in general.
