Meet Sophomore Aspen Hansen

Sophomore Aspen Hansen of Wahoo, Nebraska, is majoring in studio art and minoring in graphic design and vocational leadership at Concordia University, Nebraska. Part of the university’s Paul Scholars work education program, she works in the university’s Fan Shop and occasionally attends activities presented by the university Art Club. 

“The reason I chose to come to Concordia is because it is a Christ-centered school, it has a fantastic arts program, it is community oriented, it’s close to home and because I was accepted into the Paul Scholar program,” said Hansen. “One thing that makes Concordia different from other universities is its incredible Paul Scholar Program, which teaches communication, leadership, followership and work skills with a Christian emphasis. Everyone I have met who is a student or faculty member at Concordia wants to be at Concordia. This community is strong because of our love for God, each other and this university. I have not experienced what it is like to go to other universities, but I feel certain I am right where I am meant to be.” 

Hansen said she visited Concordia at the suggestion of her mom. After she toured the campus, she said she didn’t tour any other colleges because she knew Concordia was where she wanted to be. 

“My favorite thing so far about college is the wonderful, deeply meaningful relationships I have made. I feel that I have found a second family here,” she said. “The professors here genuinely care about their students. Many of my professors remember me by name even when I am no longer in their classes. They are kind, enthusiastic and witnesses to Christ’s love. They have taught me by example that I should do everything with a view towards God. My professors have showed me that my purposes are many, including but not limited to student, friend and worker.”  

“My favorite thing so far about college is the wonderful, deeply meaningful relationships I have made. I feel that I have found a second family here.”

Hansen said she’s not sure what her path will look like following graduation due to her widely varied interests. She may consider working in nature conservation but could also see herself as a fashion historian for the film industry or perhaps as a museum historian. She has also considered freelance art, photography or book illustration.  

Hansen said she is incredibly close to her family and is thankful for their love and support. When she’s not in class or at work, you’ll find her hiking, rock climbing, weight lifting, biking, camping, taking pictures, writing, journaling, reading, watching movies, listening to music, sewing, English country dancing or hanging out with family and friends.  

Hansen said her time at Concordia has challenged her to grow in her abilities to overcome difficulties and conflict and enhanced her confidence in her own abilities. She said she has increased in her independence, communication and relational skills, knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ. 

“Concordia is helping develop my faith in a variety of ways. Christianity is the focal point of this school. There is chapel, evening prayer and praise. I am continuously being guided towards Christ,” she said. “I’m Methodist, and I have had the opportunity to learn more about other denominations here at Concordia. This helps me to understand and appreciate other viewpoints, and it also strengthens my own worldview. It is a beautiful thing to see how much we all love God.” 

The Paul Scholars program at Concordia University, Nebraska equips Christian leaders within a distinctly Lutheran academic scholarship community through Christ-centered service, hands-on work experiences and engaging learning.