Junior Jenna Muntz dreams of teaching high school agricultural classes

Junior Jenna Muntz of Louisville, Nebraska, is studying agricultural education at Concordia Nebraska. She is a member of Uzziah Scholars, the Ag Club and the Art Club. 

“I chose Concordia because the second I stepped on campus for my tour, I felt like I was meant to be here,” she explained. “I love that I'm getting a great education while also being surrounded by people who have similar values and goals. It's amazing to have professors praying for us in class, [to experience] daily chapel and to be able to feel safe with my faith.”  

She said that although Concordia Nebraska may be smaller than some colleges, she appreciates the vast offerings available and strong sense of community prevalent throughout the campus. 

“My classmates are respectful and supportive, and the professors are always open to helping out when we need it. You can't get that at a university with 150 people in one class,” she said. 

I love that I'm getting a great education while also being surrounded by people who have similar values and goals. It's amazing to have professors praying for us in class, [to experience] daily chapel and to be able to feel safe with my faith.

Muntz received an associate’s degree from a community college and was seeking a university to transfer to that could help her fulfill her dream of serving as a teacher. 

“Concordia Nebraska was very nice to work with when it came to transfer credits and support through the whole process,” she explained. “I felt like they truly wanted me in the ag ed program and at this school.” 

She said her peers have been kind and welcoming and her professors have been challenging yet supportive. 

“They often talk about vocation, which is what we are called to do, and that makes the pressure of trying to figure out what career is right a little bit easier,” she said. “In one class specifically, the professor prays for us at the beginning of class that God will guide us on our educational journey and thanks Him for bringing us to this school. I'm confident that my purpose is to make a difference as a teacher. Concordia's agriculture and education programs are truly amazing. I feel like I get the best of both worlds since I am an ag ed major. I'm really excited for student teaching because I know that the professors will help me find a place where I can grow into the teacher I want to be.” 

Although Muntz grew up with the church, she said her time at the university has definitely strengthened her faith in Jesus Christ. 

“I have never felt more passionate about my faith. The opportunity to go to chapel every day without having to worry about missing class is great,” she said “I have already grown closer to God and His word. It's an amazing feeling.” 

Muntz said much of her family lives about 10 minutes from her childhood home. She has one older sister, a brother-in-law and two younger sisters.  

“We are really close and share the same passion for agriculture,” she said. “We have a small show lamb operation, so it gives us the opportunity to work together and spend a lot of time in the barn with each other. I have a ton of aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents that I see very often. I am so blessed to be so close with my family members.” 

Following graduation, Muntz dreams of teaching high school ag classes.  

“Some of the most influential people in my life were my high school teachers, so I hope I can be that person for my future students. My high school also didn't have ag classes or FFA so I would love to go back to my hometown to teach and start an ag program at some point in my career.”  

A degree in agricultural education from Concordia University, Nebraska prepares students with the teaching and leadership skills, technical agricultural knowledge and broad general education needed to be a successful middle, high school or community agricultural program agriculture teacher. The ag education program at Concordia can also provide the preparation needed to work in agricultural extension, positions in foreign service or as an agricultural educator in business and industry.