Emma Wolfenberger

Nursing

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Class Year: 2026

Hometown: Weatherford, Texas

Why did you choose to attend UE?

I knew UE was the place where I was meant to be from the moment I stepped on campus. I didn't originally think I was going to move out-of-state for college, but when I got the opportunity to tour here, I fell in love with the Nursing faculty and program, along with the encouraging staff and study abroad opportunities. I have always been welcomed with open arms in every aspect of campus life, which really demonstrates how wonderful this University is and how dedicated they are to student success.

Did you visit campus before choosing UE? What was it like, what did you notice, or how did it contribute to your college decision?

I visited campus during Thanksgiving break of my senior year. The fall leaves were gorgeous and I was in awe of the architecture of Olmsted and the main square. But even better was the attention I received from both my tour guide and faculty members! My UE Ambassador was amazing and answered all of my questions and concerns, giving me a great tour of the campus and what would be provided. The best part, however, was getting a personalized tour from a Nursing professor in the labs and simulations. It really made me feel welcomed and set in place my excitement to go to the University of Evansville.

How has your program shaped and prepared you for a future career?

I might be a little biased, but I really do believe UE has one of the best Nursing programs! It was essentially the reason I decided to go to college so far away from home and has met every expectation. Because of the smaller student-to-professor ratio, you get to really build a relationship with your professors and learn from them one-on-one. You also have so many clinical opportunities right away as a freshman, as well as connections to internships at hospitals, which allows you to truly see if nursing is the right fit.

How has UE been affordable for  you? How did scholarship opportunities/financial aid influence your decision to attend UE?

UE has made college very, very affordable for me! I come from a lower-income family, so the possibility of going to a university without experiencing student loans or debt was a long shot, but UE made it possible! I was very blessed to receive a lot of scholarships from the University, which, along with a wonderful Nursing program, sealed my decision to come here.

What advice would you share with incoming students?

A piece of advice I would share with incoming students is to say yes! At first, it’s so hard to put yourself out there and go outside of your comfort zone, but if you do, I promise it’s so worth it! If a couple of new friends ask you if you want to go and get ice cream, say yes! If you’re asked to play pickleball and you don’t know how to, try it out! That’s how the college experience is made.