Name: Riley Richards
Major: B.A. Exercise Science, M.A. Leadership
Graduation Year: 2024, M.A 2026
Campus Involvement: Football, FCA, Admissions Graduate Assistant
What school did you transfer from and why: I transferred from Indiana Wesleyan University, and the reason was mostly related to football.
Who at Wartburg made the transfer process easier: MaTina Clark helped me tremendously in the process. Also, the football staff made the transition very smooth. I transferred after the fall semester in the middle of the year, so there was not a lot of time to get everything settled.
Were there any individuals who helped you integrate quickly into the Wartburg community: On the very first day, I gained 100+ friends and peers on the football team. They took me in and made me at home.
Why did you choose Wartburg: For the opportunity to continue my degree with access to great technology in the exercise science labs and to play for a football team with an amazing culture and tradition.
How has your experience at Wartburg exceeded your expectations: Wartburg has exceeded my expectations in many ways. I gained a new family by coming here and experiences that will help me professionally. I had a blast being able to play football and grow as a person here.
How did you navigate transitioning to play a collegiate sport at a new institution: It can be a difficult transition, but my teammates welcomed me into their family and their culture that they had built. I just tried to work as hard as possible and get to know my new teammates as individuals on and off the field.
What opportunities has Wartburg provided you academically: Wartburg has given me opportunities I did not know were possible. With the help of professors, the Registrar’s Office, and many more, I was still able to graduate on time. This gave me the opportunity to pursue my master’s degree and still play football.
How did your experience impact your decision to apply for the Master of Arts in Leadership program at Wartburg: My experience in my undergrad impacted me greatly in applying for the leadership program. I knew that I did not want to leave Wartburg, and I wanted to continue building myself academically.
Why did you decide to apply as a graduate assistant: I wanted to be involved on campus still. The graduate program is online, and I wanted to still be a part of Wartburg physically. The admissions team is a wonderful group of people, and I love working with them.
What is the biggest takeaway you have had from your time at Wartburg: My time at Wartburg has taught me so much about myself. I have met countless people who have impacted my life in a positive way. My biggest takeaway from Wartburg is that the relationships you create are the most important thing. I was blessed to win a lot of football games as a player, but what sticks with you the most is the people you share your moments with. Those relationships are what truly define the Wartburg experience and continue to shape who I am today.
