Junior education major Matthew Guilford seeks to serve as an international educator and “spread the love of Jesus wherever I go.”

Junior Matthew Guilford of Lincoln, Nebraska, is majoring in secondary education with emphasis in history and theology. He is also working toward an ESL endorsement. Heavily involved in the university’s music offerings, he is a trombone player in the University Wind Symphony, sings with the A Cappella Choir and is a member of the trombone choir. He also serves as a university resident assistant.  

“I chose Concordia for its reputation of being a historical teachers college,” he explained. “My family has great ties to the university and has for generations. I love the community and Christ-centered culture. The professors take the time to know us and are always very helpful and wise.” 

He said that many may have the incorrect impression that because Concordia Nebraska is a smaller university, it has less to offer students and is lacking in campus culture and ample opportunities. He said that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

“Concordia strives to offer fulfilling education both academically and spiritually,” he said. “Christ is present in our studies and it is nice to be surrounded by many Christians. Class sizes are generally small, and the professors take the time to know you personally. They are not just there to teach, but invest in your journey.” 

Although he’s not a music major, Guilford said he greatly enjoys his involvement with the university music department.  

Concordia strives to offer fulfilling education both academically and spiritually. Christ is present in our studies and it is nice to be surrounded by many Christians. Class sizes are generally small, and the professors take the time to know you personally. They are not just there to teach, but invest in your journey.

“There is real talent displayed from the directors, and they hold us to a very high standard,” he said. “The caliber of music presents an excellent challenge, and we are always pushing the goal line for what we can accomplish. I also think it is a blessing that one can be a part of multiple ensembles. I am a part of three, but I have friends that do as many as seven! I am honored to be a part of Concordia’s musical history.” 

Guilford began his college career at the University of Omaha in hopes of becoming a pilot. After graduating from high school in 2020, his beginning college experience was less stellar than he expected.  

“I ended up dropping out after the first semester and moving out on my own to work,” he explained. “While I loved my job as a construction consultant, I knew I needed to go back to college and give my life direction. During Covid, I became more acquainted with my church and taking my faith more seriously. In 2022, I wanted to dedicate my life to Christ in service to whatever He would have me do. My family and church had good connections with Concordia and it was the obvious choice that I was led to make.” 

He said one of the many things that make Concordia Nebraska special is the people. From professors to campus staff to fellow students, he said the university community is like no other.  

“I love my friends. I have an amazing roommate. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” he said. “I love the experience of the professors who are very well versed in their respective fields. I love the music that we are able to share with people across the nation. I love that I can always get spiritual guidance from our leaders and chaplain. I love the culture and atmosphere of campus. I could not have asked for a better college experience!”  

He pointed out that the university’s professors care about students deeply and encourage them daily. 

“Our professors take a great deal of care to teach us not only what to think, but how to think. They care deeply about what they teach, and there is passion in their words,” he said. “Many are willing to meet outside of class time to help you with any questions you may have and point you in the right direction. College is a journey, and every one of the professors I have had the privilege to study under is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that you get the most out of your education.” 

Following graduation, Guilford is interested in teaching internationally. 

“Concordia has offered me amazing education as I work towards my teaching degree,” he said. “I plan to do a lot of work overseas, and Concordia has made finding connections easy. I have already partnered with a company to teach in the Middle East. If you told me in 2020 that I would be able to do what I do now, I wouldn’t believe it. I am so thankful for what the Father has provided, and I look forward to what He has in store!” 

Guilford’s parents Tom ‘92 and Holly (Noack) ‘95 met at Concordia Nebraska and both serve as Lutheran school teachers at Lincoln Lutheran. He has three brothers and two sisters. His older sister Rebekah ‘23 also attended Concordia and is now a music teacher for the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska on their reservation. His brother Andrew frequently plays music in downtown Lincoln and is an aircraft mechanic. His sister Lydia recently graduated high school and is considering becoming a Japanese translator. His brother Joshua just started high school, and his youngest brother David is a middle school student at St. John’s Lutheran in Seward.  

He said his time at the university has had a profound impact on his faith in Jesus Christ.

“Concordia has a very solid approach to theology and faith. There are many opportunities for worship in many different settings,” he said. “There is chapel every day, both traditional and contemporary. There is praise on Wednesdays, evening prayer, hymns sings and Bible studies of all kinds. The staff make it their mission to provide and enrich the faith lives of all the students.”  

Although it may sound daunting to some, Guildford said his dream job is to work and teach internationally in difficult settings where education is greatly needed. 

“I want to be on the front lines. I want to help others and bring education where it is needed,” he said. “I want to travel and spread the love of Jesus wherever I go.” 

The secondary education program at Concordia Nebraska provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical application needed to be a successful high school teacher. The ESL endorsement reinforces the theory and practice of second language teaching and learning.