Freshman Cohen Paden enjoys university’s Paul Scholars program, dreams of graphic design career

Freshman Cohen Paden of Newcastle, Nebraska is majoring in graphic design and minoring in vocational leadership at Concordia University, Nebraska. She is in the university’s Paul Scholars work education program. 

“I choose to study at Concordia because I love the community around here and how everyone loves Jesus as much as I do. I also like the ratio between students to professors,” she said. “Concordia is different from other universities because the students here are faith-rooted. The professors and staff here make you feel like you are called to this school for a purpose.”’  

Paden said the graphic design program at Concordia Nebraska uniquely combines strong artistic foundations, Christian values and real-world experience. 

“I was drawn to Concordia because of its strong faith-based foundation and the way it integrates Christian values into every part of campus life. I knew I wanted to attend a university where my education would challenge me academically while also helping me grow in my faith,” she said. “Concordia stood out because it’s not just about earning a degree, it’s about preparing for a life of service, leadership and purpose rooted in Christ. The supportive community, small class sizes and the opportunity to connect my studies with my beliefs made Concordia the perfect place for me.” 

As part of her involvement in the Paul Scholars program, Paden has an on-campus job supporting the university’s graduate education team. 

“Being a Paul Scholar has been such a meaningful part of my Concordia experience. The program has challenged me to grow not only academically but also in leadership and service. I’ve appreciated the opportunity to connect with other students who are motivated to use their gifts in purposeful ways, and the mentorship built into the program has been a huge blessing. It’s encouraged me to think more deeply about how my faith, education and career all connect, and it’s given me experiences that are preparing me to live out my calling with confidence,” she explained. “Working with the graduate team has been a really exciting opportunity for me. It’s given me a chance to see firsthand how Concordia supports students beyond their undergraduate experience and how graduate programs are designed to help people live out their vocations at an even deeper level. Being involved has allowed me to build relationships with staff and gain insight into the kind of professional communication, organization and teamwork that goes into running programs like this. It’s also encouraging to know that the work I’m doing is helping future students take their next step in faith and career.” 

During her short time on campus, she said she’s already forged strong friendships. 

“Coming here, I wasn’t sure how quickly I would find my place, but the community is so welcoming and supportive that it’s been easy to connect with people,” she said. “Those relationships have already made a big difference in making Concordia feel like home.” 

“I choose to study at Concordia because I love the community around here and how everyone loves Jesus as much as I do.”

Paden said her professors are helping her to discover her purpose by taking the time to get to know her personally and encouraging her to explore how her gifts can be used to serve others. 

 “They don’t just focus on academics. They connect classwork to real-life applications and faith, reminding us that our vocations are about more than just a career,” she said. “Their guidance, mentorship and willingness to walk alongside me have helped me think more deeply about how I can use my skills to make a difference in the world.” 

She said she believes her experiences at the university will give her both the professional skills and the spiritual foundation needed to succeed.  

“Through hands-on learning, supportive professors and opportunities to apply what I’m learning in real-world settings, I’m gaining the confidence and experience necessary for my career,” she said. “At the same time, Concordia’s faith-based environment is shaping me to approach my work with integrity, purpose and a heart for service. I know that combination will help me not only excel in my job but also make a meaningful impact on the people I serve.” 

Paden said her dream job following graduation is to be a sports graphic designer, but she hopes to combine that with serving on the media team at her church in Sioux City, Iowa. 

“I would love to make hype videos and graphics on either the collegiate level or the professional level of sports,” she said.  

Her mom, Crystal Paden, is a chiropractor, and her dad, Michael Paden, works as a seed sales representative. She has one older brother, Bailey. 

“I’ve always looked up to my brother,” she said. “We’re a close family, and I’m grateful for the support and encouragement they’ve given me along the way. Outside of school, I enjoy staying active and connecting with others through different activities. My faith is important to me, so I regularly go to church and value the community and encouragement I find there. I also love playing sports, especially volleyball and pickleball, which give me a chance to compete, have fun and build teamwork. When I’m not on the court, I enjoy shopping and keeping up with new styles as well as collecting shoes. It’s a fun hobby that lets me express my personality and creativity in a unique way. Lastly, about a year ago I started picking up the guitar and now I enjoy playing worship songs for me and my friends to worship.”  

She said her time at the university has further strengthened and developed her faith in Jesus Christ. 

“Being in a Christ-centered environment means that faith is woven into daily life, whether it’s starting classes with prayer, having professors connect lessons back to God’s calling or being part of a community that encourages spiritual growth,” she said. “Attending chapel, joining in Bible studies, and simply being surrounded by peers who share similar values has deepened my relationship with Christ. It’s helped me see how my faith can be lived out not just in church, but also in my studies, my friendships and eventually in my career.” 

In Concordia University, Nebraska’s Paul Scholars work education program, students join a community that combines academic excellence with real-world work experience. The program pairs classroom learning with practical job skills to prepare students for servant leadership in the church and world.  Through work as a Paul Scholar, participants cover part of their tuition, with the remaining portion supported by a scholarship awarded through the program. Paul Scholars earn a vocational leadership minor, a program woven throughout the student’s time at Concordia. The program also offers a unique opportunity for local employers to partner with the university in developing the next generation of leaders in the church and world while gaining immediate access to talented, motivated student workers.