Concordia is different from other universities, because I feel I that I have a real connection to my professors, and that they take a vested interest in not only my success here, but also in getting to know me.
Sophomore Jackson Munter said he chose to study music at Concordia Nebraska because he appreciates the university’s strong music program and outstanding faculty. A music education major, Munter’s principal instrument is trombone, but he also takes organ lessons, is involved in concert band, A Cappella Choir and orchestra. He has played trombone for 10 years and organ for five years.
“Concordia is different from other universities, because I feel I that I have a real connection to my professors, and that they take a vested interest in not only my success here, but also in getting to know me,” said Munter. “Music at Concordia is different from other universities because one can be involved in many ensembles at a high level, take multiple applied instrumental lessons, and develop a meaningful relationship with the professors and staff. Our music program is very successful, and there is an environment of cooperation among all the students. I honestly believe that we are all trying to build each other up and push all our peers to do the best they can.”
Munter chose Concordia Nebraska after comparing it to two other larger schools. He said at Concordia, he discovered that everyone he encountered was friendly and supportive and seemed determined to ensure his success, something that made Concordia stand out from other universities.
“My professors help me discover my purpose,” he explained. “All of my professors set great examples by being extremely knowledgeable, talented, and effective in leading class and rehearsals. They show me what is possible to do with music and education and inspire me all the time to keep working towards my own goal of being a teacher. My professors support my ideas and help me to create my own ideology about teaching.”
Munter said Concordia Nebraska has also been instrumental in helping him grow his faith.
“There are always opportunities for worship around campus and around Seward,” he said. “Singing in the A Cappella choir in many different churches and beautiful spaces has also helped my faith to grow.”
Munter dreams of teaching high school band in a public school, possibly in Nebraska. Munter’s mother is an elementary level music teacher. He credits both of his hard-working parents for setting a positive example for him and his sister, who is a senior in high school. He added that it is a joy to study and make music at a high level with some of his best friends at the university. He has also enjoyed several tour opportunities with the music groups he is involved in.
“I think my Concordia experience will prepare me for my future career, because I am getting a lot of hands on experience in the classrooms here on campus and in actual classrooms around the city and state,” he explained. “I am getting to see firsthand how music education works, and I am encouraged to build my own ideas and work hard for my own goals.”