Get to know a few of Concordia University Ann Arbor's graduate assistants!
Jacob Kellersohn
Program
Track and Field
Hometown
Saline, Michigan
What inspired you to become a graduate assistant?
I wanted to become a graduate assistant so I could pursue my education and my love for coaching at the same time.
What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant?
The best part about being a graduate assistant is being able to have an impact on the lives of the young athletes that I work with.
Did you go to Concordia for your undergraduate studies?
No I did not, I attended Butler University.
What pushed you to get your graduate degree at Concordia?
It is a great school with competitive athletics and a strong christian community that I felt drawn to.
Ashley Spiegelberg
Program
Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education (SPAHE)
Hometown
Whitmore Lake, Michigan
What inspired you to become a graduate assistant?
My boss, Kate Robbins, is the best mentor and has provided me opportunities to discover my passion for working in higher education and continues to push me to be the best I can be!
What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant?
Getting to know my students.
Did you go to Concordia for your undergraduate studies?
Yes, I got a BS in Hospitality and Event Management.
What pushed you to get your graduate degree at Concordia?
Being able to come back to the school I got my undergrad from.
Colton Ritsema
Program
Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (MSCI) with Teaching Certification
Hometown
Jenison, Michigan
What inspired you to become a graduate assistant?
I am taking my fifth year on the Men’s Basketball team and wanted to still be actively involved on campus in some capacity. Being the GA for Athletics and Golf was the perfect way to do that.
What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant?
Getting to interact with the athletes on the Golf team and help out with the weight training programs of various teams on campus.
Did you go to Concordia for your undergraduate studies?
Yes. My undergraduate degree is in Mass Communication with a Minor in English
What pushed you to get your graduate degree at Concordia?
In all honesty, I wanted to continue playing basketball, thus requiring me to be enrolled in classes at the university. But, I am certain the things I will learn in this program are also great life skills to have regardless of where my vocational journey takes me.
Daiyajot Grewal
Program
Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
Hometown
Canton, Michigan
What inspired you to become a graduate assistant?
I really wanted to be involved in campus events and give back to our community while going to school. A big part of being a good occupational therapist is always putting your patient first. I like to carry the same mindset in every aspect of my life about also giving back to my community.
What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant?
I love meeting new people and planning exciting events! Everyone here has been so welcoming, and I am very grateful.
Did you go to Concordia for your undergraduate studies?
I did not, I attended Kent State University.
What pushed you to get your graduate degree at Concordia?
I love that the occupational therapy program at Concordia centered around the holistic practice of medicine, or viewing our patients as human beings rather than defining them by their medical histories. I also love that Concordia is a religious school, and I appreciate that I can connect my studies back to my faith on campus.
Jacob Culp
Program
Hometown
Oswego, Illinois
What inspired you to become a graduate assistant?
My love and passion to work and grow within the Athletic Department at Concordia.
What is your favorite part about being a graduate assistant?
Getting to express myself and the school through the creation of unique content, especially in graphic design.
Did you go to Concordia for your undergraduate studies?
Yes, I got my undergraduate degree in Mass Communications.
What pushed you to get your graduate degree at Concordia?
The desire (and need) to grow in my professional skills, especially in a digital environment, along with the desire to gain experience in the field of Sports Information.
—
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.