Student Spotlight: Joel Weitzenkamp

Joel Weitzenkamp
Meet Joel Weitzenkamp, a freshman agribusiness major from Hooper, Nebraska.
April 18, 2022

Hometown: Hooper, Nebraska

Major: Agribusiness

Graduation: May 2025

Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

Growing up in Nebraska and having parents, grandparents and great grandparents that came here, I always knew I would come to the University of Nebraska. And lucky for me, Nebraska also has a really good ag school, which is what I’m interested in.

What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I love the opportunities I have to meet new people and make new connections. I get to meet and interact with people from all over the state and from all throughout the country. Everyone has a different background and community that they come from.

What about diversity and inclusion is important to you when you think about your CASNR experience?

In CASNR, everyone has equal opportunities. There are opportunities provided at every level and for every skill set that allow for development of every student.

Exposure to cultural differences is a huge part of college. What activity have you recently participated in that is different from what you are sued to in your culture? This could be something you read, listened to, watched, eaten or otherwise taken part in. What did you learn from this activity?

My roommate is half Greek. I have visited his family, and his mom made me some of their Greek food.

What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?

My favorite class so far has been Engler 101. This class focused a lot on how to be successful in life, which then ties into having a successful business. It made me dig deeper into my life and motivated me to take my future serious.

What are your plans post-graduation?

The short answer is I plan on returning home to the farm. The long answer is that there are many things I’m interested in. Currently, I am learning to fly, with the hope of some day crop dusting. I am also interested in beef packaging. Beef packaging is something that I could incorporate into the farm at home. My future plans all relate to the farm somehow.

What’s life like outside of school?

Outside of school I spend time with my friends. We drive around town, hang out in the dorms, or play basketball at the rec. I love biking and being active outside. I am a part of a campus ministry and I am also learning to fly.

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