A Summer of Corn and Community

Emma Gjesdahl ’19, Fargo. N.D.
Major/Minor: Psychology; Chemistry

Why did you choose Concordia?

I chose to come to Concordia because it has a strong pre-med program. I also loved that it had small class sizes, which I believe really promotes learning. The small class sizes also makes it easier to form relationships with classmates and professors.

What was your role on the corn feed crew?

In 2018, I was the corn feed co-coordinator along with Anna Buan. Together, we communicated with hosts in 24 cities to plan each corn feed. We sent or brought all of the supplies for each corn feed and made travel plans for the corn feed crew. We traveled to 10 corn feeds in Minnesota, cooked tons of corn and connected with Cobbers. It was the BEST SUMMER EVER!

What motivated you to get involved with Family Weekend?

I originally joined Family Weekend to find friends, be involved in something on campus, and because I was interested in event planning. I stayed on the committee because of the friends I made, the skills I was gaining, and because I felt continually supported.

In what ways has Concordia helped you grow?

Throughout my time at Concordia, I have had a handful of leadership positions in student organizations. As an introvert, these positions really pushed me to be much more confident in myself. Concordia has also pushed me to want to succeed academically.

Have you had a favorite professor or class?

Anatomy and Physiology has been my favorite class because the content is so interesting. I find the human body incredibly complex. I also love the lab component of the class. Dr. (Julie) Rutherford is my favorite professor because she cares so much about each student and is passionate about the topic of anatomy.

What are your passions outside of academics?

Food, dogs, and Netflix

Where is the best place in Fargo-Moorhead to get a cup of coffee?

Beans Coffee Bar

What has been your favorite memory so far at Concordia?

Getting engaged under the bell tower!

What advice would you give a prospective student?

It’s OK to not know your plan yet. Concordia has so many resources to help you figure that out and will continually support you.

^{Published March 2019}