I have the support of those around me

NAME: Amber Martenson
CLASS YEAR: 2022
HOMETOWN: Gilman, Iowa
MAJORS: K-12 Art education

INVOVLEMENT ON CAMPUS: Dance Marathon, Kappa Delta Pi, National Society of Leadership and Success

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE WARTBURG: When I first stepped on campus, I felt that I was home. It just felt right when I was walking around campus, and I knew that the education department and all of the professors would care about my journey.

HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON YOUR MAJOR: The art and education departments are filled with a small group of professors who know all their students and care a lot about their students. The education department also provides great opportunities to get a lot of hours in the classroom to make sure that you are sure about your profession. My art professors were very supportive of my choice and also pushed me to be an art education major.

PLANS AFTER GRADUATION: I will be teaching K-4 art in the Newton Community School District.

HOW HAS WARTBURG SET YOU UP FOR SUCCESS IN YOUR FIELD: I was able to get involved with so many different organizations and know so many people that I have made connections with more people than I ever thought I could. I have also been given a lot of real-world experience that has allowed me to know what I have learned and put it into action.

HOW HAS ART PLAYED A ROLE IN YOUR LIFE: Art has helped me learn more about myself. Through my artistic expression, I am able to share my view of the world with others.

WHY IS ART AN IMPORTANT PART OF A CHILD’S EDUCATION: Having art in education as children grow helps them think creatively within all subjects. Without art, students would not be able to have a balanced education that places importance on creative thinking and expression. Having a strong art program gives students an outlet to be expressive and share their knowledge and views in a different way.

FAVORITE CLASS AT WARTBURG: My favorite class was my senior art seminar exhibition course. I was able to become so close to the others involved, and we were able to consistently talk about what we loved: art.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WARTBURG MEMORY:  My favorite memory was seeing the reveal for WCDM14’s fall push day. Our organization raised $54,431.12 in 24 hours, and it was one of the most amazing moments that I will never forget.

ADVICE FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS: Don’t be afraid to get to know and go up to and talk to knew people. I know that this is obvious, but I wish I would have forced myself to do this sooner as a college student.

WHY IS WARTBURG WORTH IT: The Wartburg community cares about those within and a part of it. Because I attended Wartburg, I know I will have connection to so many graduates across the United States and will always have the support of my professors and friends.