Annie von Kampen has spent three summers helping new Huskers feel at home — and she still can’t get enough of it.
Now in her third year with the New Student Enrollment team at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, von Kampen plays a key role in guiding incoming students through the transition to college. As a resolutions specialist, she helps answer questions, ensure students complete pre-advising tasks, and reminds them that support goes far beyond orientation day.
"Going into my first year at UNL, I was ready to tackle college head-on but was also nervous about making those first connections on campus,” von Kampen said. “NSE was so great for pushing me out of my comfort zone and getting me started off on the right foot.”
After beginning her NSE journey as an orientation leader, von Kampen returned for a second summer in her current role. She’ll continue in that position until the fall, when she starts her career as a music teacher in Wahoo.
"We do a lot of answering phone calls and emails, making sure students are on track with their pre-advising tasks, scheduling their orientation dates and making sure they're getting signed up for advising appointments,” she said. “Being able to provide that personal touch by reaching out and saying, ‘Hey, we're not going to let you fall behind and we’re here for you,’ I think really helps people feel cared for.”
Von Kampen said the work has given her valuable experience that translates directly into the classroom—from building relationships with students and families to helping others navigate a new environment.
“I've always felt like I had a knack for mentoring others and sharing what I've learned from my own experiences, and that’s exactly what I’ve gotten to do at NSE,” she said. “This program has taught me so many lessons that I’m going to take into the classroom.”
While she enjoys supporting new students, von Kampen said she’s also looking forward to one last summer of making memories with the team that’s shaped her personally and professionally.
“The bonds I’ve made with the staff is one of the main reasons why I've continued so long. They've made a huge impact on me and how I see myself as a professional,” she said.
