Outstanding Students

Luke Ockerlander

Q: Where are you from? (city, state) 

A: Mount Vernon, Iowa 

Q: Why did you choose Kirkwood? 

A: One of the reasons why I chose Kirkwood was that my sister graduated from there. But the main reason is that it was close to home. I was homeschooled throughout my life and I wanted to ease into college life. 

 
Q: What is your major and how did you choose it? 

A: My major is Liberal Arts. I chose this even though I knew I wanted to go into business so I would have more flexibility when transferring. 

Q: What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood?  

A: My proudest moment at Kirkwood would probably be when I helped Student Life with setting up events virtually. I remember seeing how many people joined our trivia night the first time we had them this semester and I was amazed! It really made me feel proud of the work we all did to help get it off the ground. 

Q: What are your plans after Kirkwood? 

A: After Kirkwood, I’m planning on transferring to the University of Iowa to pursue a degree in economics. When I first came to Kirkwood, I wasn’t sure which branch of business I should go into. But then one of my professors helped me discover my love for economics. 

Q: What inspires or motivates you? 

A: What motivates me is a bit simple. Before this whole pandemic, I would help out at campus visit days where we would give tours to high school students. I loved being on the panels there and tell jokes while answering questions the students had. It made me realize that making people laugh, helping others, and sharing in the joy they feel is what really motivates me. 

Q: Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood – hobbies, family, other interests, etc. 

A: Outside of school, I enjoy playing my guitar, hanging out with my friends, and going on hikes. My uncle also owns a cabin in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and I love going on trips up there and enjoying nature. 

Q: What does be named an Outstanding Student mean to you? 

A: I am honored to be named Outstanding Student because it shows me that what I have done has made an impact. Just simply knowing that makes me more than happy. 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

A: I would just like to thank both the faculty for selecting me and Kirkwood for giving me this opportunity. 

Categories: Outstanding Students