Wartburg helped me build my professional network

NAME: Trent Teske
CLASS YEAR: 2016
MAJOR: Music education 
CURRENT EMPLOYMENT: Choir director, Emmetsburg Community School District

WHY WARTBURG: I chose Wartburg because of the small-town and family culture shown by faculty, staff, and students. My first visit on campus was an All-State Camp before my junior year of high school. As my mom and I were moving out of the dorms after the camp, carrying all of my things across campus, we were stopped by at least 10 different Wartburg coaches, faculty, staff, and students asking if we needed help. My mom and I were shocked by the hospitality and knew that Wartburg was going to be the perfect fit for me.

HOW DID THAT EXPERIENCE CONTINUE AS A STUDENT: My professors were always very friendly and supportive. They always asked the right questions to make sure you understood and were always available for follow up questions at any time. They took the time to learn your name, who you are and how you learn; then they tailored their teaching to your learning strengths.

HOW DID YOUR WARTBURG EXPERIENCE PREPARE YOU FOR LIFE AFTER COLLEGE: Wartburg helped me create a network of professionals in my profession to learn from even after college. I was able to ask questions and work with so many talented people in my field of study before and after college.

HOW ARE YOU LIVING OUT THE WARTBURG MISSION: By bleeding black and orange and showing it not just by the colors I wear, but through leadership and service for my students and other members of my community.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS: Make as many friends as you can and don’t be afraid to try new things. The 4 years you have go by so fast, so take every opportunity given to you and enjoy them!

WHY WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORTH IT: My experience was worth it because of the unlimited opportunities Wartburg provided for me. In my music education courses, Wartburg provided real-life experiences by having us go out to area schools and work with actual teachers in our field. As a member of the Wartburg Choir, we were able to travel all across the United States and also the world; traveling to Europe on an international tour through eight different countries.