Name: Landon Jepson
Hometown: Williamsburg, Iowa
Major: Journalism & Communication
What has been your favorite class: Holocaust & Its Significance and Philosophy, Faith and Reason. I enjoyed both because they challenged me to think critically and look at topics from different perspectives. Holocaust & Its Significance helped me better understand the importance of history and individual stories, while Philosophy, Faith and Reason encouraged me to think more deeply about difficult questions. Both classes reminded me that a Wartburg education is about more than preparing for a career — it is about becoming a thoughtful and well-rounded person.
Why did you choose Wartburg: I chose Wartburg because of the people and the feeling I had when I visited campus. My connection to Wartburg started before I was a student through my family, music, and athletics. When I came here for my Meistersinger Music Scholarship audition, I remember feeling that there was something special about this place. After visiting several times, I could picture myself being part of the community. Ultimately, I didn’t just choose Wartburg for a major or a program. I chose it because it felt like home.
What was the most impactful experience you had at Wartburg: One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had has been the Knight Nation program. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with Wartburg alumni and professionals, including Alyssa Kozak ’17, a producer at NASCAR: Eric Hanson ’96, an anchor and reporter at KCCI; and Paul Yeager ’98, a producer and host at PBS. Those conversations gave me valuable career advice, but more importantly, they showed me what is possible after Wartburg. I was able to learn from people who were once students themselves and begin building relationships that will continue beyond graduation.
What advice would you give to new students: My biggest piece of advice would be to say yes. Say yes to meeting new people, joining organizations, trying something outside your comfort zone, and taking opportunities you may not have expected. I came to Wartburg without knowing exactly what my four years would look like. Looking back, some of my best experiences came from simply being willing to try something new. You don’t have to have everything figured out when you arrive. Allow yourself to explore and discover what you’re passionate about.
How would you describe Wartburg in three words: Community, opportunity, home
What has been your favorite Wartburg experience: One of my favorite parts of Wartburg has been traveling and performing with the Wartburg Choir. I’ve been fortunate to travel to Spain, Morocco, and Germany, and those experiences let me see new places and cultures while sharing them with people I care about. The performances were incredible, but some of my favorite memories are the conversations, laughter, and experiences we shared along the way.
Any other thoughts: If there is one thing I’d want people to know about my Wartburg experience, it’s that the people are what make this place special. I’ve had incredible opportunities to travel, perform, lead, serve and prepare for my career. But when I look back, the people and relationships will be what I remember most. Wartburg has helped me discover who I am, what I care about, and the kind of person I want to become. Someday, I hope I can give back to Wartburg and provide another student with the same opportunities and sense of belonging that I have experienced here.
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