Wartburg provided me with a framework for continued success
NAME: Amanda Brainerd
CLASS YEAR: 2020
HOMETOWN: DeWitt, Iowa
MAJOR: Exercise science
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT: Women’s basketball, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Dance Marathon
CURRENTLY: Pursuing a master’s degree in dietetics and clinical nutrition services at Kansas State University
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WARTBURG: I chose Wartburg because it gave me the opportunity to succeed at a high level academically and athletically.
HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON YOUR MAJOR: I decided to pursue an exercise science major because this diverse major gave me the ability to explore both the overall and cellular aspects of the human body. This led me to discover my passion for health and wellness for all people.
WHO WERE YOUR MENTORS ON CAMPUS: My mentors on campus include Bob Amsberry, Kelley Jacobs, Dr. Ed Westen, and Dr. Patricia Dietz. It is truly remarkable how much these four invest in all their players and students, which is what makes both the Wartburg women’s basketball team and the exercise science major one of a kind.
HOW DID YOUR WARTBURG EXPERIENCE PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR NEXT STEP: Wartburg has prepared me for my next step after graduation by providing me with the framework for continued success in the future. I have learned how to be a leader on a highly successful team, become a critical thinker, and to serve others.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE CLASS: My favorite class at Wartburg was when I took Science and Religion last May Term with Dr. Black. This class challenged my views and allowed me to continue to work on my communication skills with others of conflicting views and opinions.
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST DIFFICULT CLASS: My most difficult class was biochemistry with Dr. Ellerbroek; however, it was one of the most rewarding and interesting classes I’ve taken during my time at Wartburg.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WARTBURG MEMORY: My favorite Wartburg memory was beating Loras in overtime for the conference championship this year. Shout out to Payton Draper for the clutch free throws.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS: I see myself working as a registered dietician, helping people by blending my knowledge of nutrition and exercise to help people live an overall healthier lifestyle.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS: Allow yourself to fully embrace every opportunity you are presented with, treat everyone you encounter with love and respect, and cherish what and who you have around you.
WHY WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORTH IT: Wartburg is Worth It because two years ago, when I decided to transfer to Wartburg, I was optimistic that coming here could change my life. However, I had no idea the impact the people I’ve encountered or the experiences I have undergone would have. Wartburg has given me so much, and I am forever grateful.