This week marks National Lutheran Schools Week, an annual celebration that provides the network of more than 2,000 LCMS preschools, elementary schools, high schools, and universities throughout the nation with the opportunity to publicly proclaim and celebrate the good work happening with our schools.
Lutheran schools have a reputation for offering high-quality education and are amazing incubators of faithful witnesses of God’s love. At all levels, Lutheran education teaches and lives out the Gospel message of God’s salvation through Christ. Here at CUW, this Gospel focus is woven into the fabric of all that we do. We recognize the fruits of this mission in our feeder schools as well through the amazing students they bring to our campus.
In honor of National Lutheran Schools Week this year, Concordia took some time to round up a few of the CUW students who are proud products of area Lutheran high schools.
Here are just a few reasons Kelsey Koepke loves Concordia and why she encourages her Martin Luther classmates to consider us for their college education.
Interested in Concordia? Visit the campus Feb. 6 during our Lutheran High School Visit Day. Learn more here.
Kelsey Koepke
High School: Martin Luther (’18)
CUW Major: K-12 Art Education (’22)
Q: Why did you choose Concordia University Wisconsin?
It was important to me to go to a school where I could freely express my faith and learn in an atmosphere where Christianity is welcomed, and Concordia definitely provides that. Not only does the Concordia community support the same beliefs as Martin Luther, it offers excellent academic programs that incorporates faith with your learning. I’ve been really happy with my experience in Art Ed classes and I feel like it truly is preparing me for my future vocation as a high school art teacher. I also love that campus is close enough to home that I can stay in touch with high school friends or visit my family whenever I need, but far enough away that I can still have independence.
Q: Why should someone else from Martin Luther consider CUW?
I think one of the best things about Concordia is the community. A lot of people talk about how you can immediately feel this welcoming environment as soon as you step foot on campus – and it’s true! The professors, even though they’re experts in their fields, aren’t intimidating. The small class sizes allow professors to be more invested in you and your goals. There’s also always a ton of activities going on and ways to get involved. In general, pretty much everyone I’ve encountered at Concordia has had a very positive attitude and is willing to help you with whatever you need. From the first day I became a Falcon, I have felt very welcomed.
Q: Name one thing fellow Lutheran high school alums have to try when they become a CUW Falcon.
It sounds really simple but for me it makes my experience at CUW so much better. Go outside! One of the best things about CUW is the beautiful bluff and campus. The bluff is perfect for just sitting outside, walking, or even doing a great workout. Just walking outside for five minutes in between classes and seeing God’s beautiful creation helps give energy to my day. In addition to the bluff, if you have a hammock, many students including myself set up hammocks in the chapel courtyard. Its a great way to study or even just relax while enjoying the beautiful campus.
Q: What is a CUW “myth” you’d like to debunk?
One thing that is surprising for me was the Bethesda college that is with Concordia. This is a college for special needs students, so there are special needs students both on campus and in some classes. These students are so kind and the Concordia students are very kind and accepting back. I now currently work with the Bethesda students and for me, the Bethesda college helps to show how much of a positive Christian environment there is on campus.
— Madelyne Arrigoni is a senior studying English, Mass Communications, and Photography. She plans to graduate in 2022.
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