A U.S. Army veteran and Concordia University Wisconsin student finds purpose, representation, and support in the counseling profession.
A U.S. Army veteran and the veteran outreach coordinator at CUW, Kari Metts understands firsthand that trust matters in the counseling relationship — especially for those who have served.
“Some veterans have reservations about speaking with someone who hasn’t shared their experience,” Metts explains. “And there also aren’t many people of color in the counseling profession. So me being here fills both roles.”
Her presence in the counseling program represents more than academic pursuit. It reflects access, representation, and understanding for communities that are often underserved.
As an adult learner
This is her second time pursuing graduate studies at Concordia, and that familiarity played a role in her decision to return.
“I really like that the program is small,” she says. “Even though it’s online, I still feel a meaningful connection through video discussions and engagement with classmates.”
That balance of flexibility and connection allows students to stay rooted in community, even in an online learning environment.
Compassion begets compassion
For Metts, CUW’s counseling program became more than a place of learning. It became a place of care during one of the hardest seasons of her life.
“The instructors are awesome,” she shares. “They rallied around me when I was at a really low point — when my mom passed away.”
She recalls support from across the program. “From Professor Adameak, to Dr. Kaae, to our advisor, everyone offered me the support I really needed at that time.”
That culture of care reflects CUW’s commitment to forming counselors who are not only clinically prepared, but deeply compassionate — because they have experienced compassion themselves.
Trust the process
She encourages new and prospective students to approach the program with patience and perspective.
“Take it one step at a time, one class every eight weeks,” she advises. “Enjoy the journey. Enjoy what you’re about to learn. Take it all in.”
She emphasizes grounding yourself in purpose, especially during challenging moments.
“Say to yourself: I’m here where I’m supposed to be. I’m going to remember my purpose — to be a counselor. Even when a class feels difficult, remind yourself: This, too, shall pass.”
Consider the bigger picture
For Metts, every assignment and challenge is part of something bigger.
“I’m learning something to put in my toolbox,” she says. “Something that will help someone become a greater version of who they were when they first walked into my office — wherever that office may be.”
Through her military service, professional work with veterans, and formation at CUW, Metts is preparing to serve others with empathy, resilience and lived understanding.
Her journey reflects what CUW’s counseling programs strive to do every day: prepare students to meet people where they are and walk with them toward healing and hope.
For more information on veteran services, read “Concordia’s Veteran Services Office is here to assist accelerated students.”
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Explore CUW’s professional counseling pathways to learn how the program supports veterans and working adults through flexible course formats, strong faculty mentorship, and a community that shows up when it matters most. Connect with an admissions counselor, request more information, or take the next step in discerning whether this journey is where you’re meant to be.