Greta Tollefson ’25 | Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
Majors: Biology (Pre-Med), Psychology
Minors: Chemistry, Environmental and Sustainability Studies

Please tell us about yourself.

I am a graduating senior in the pre-med track. You can almost always find me in the Integrated Science Center (ISC), usually studying but more often chatting with faculty and classmates. I absolutely LOVE coffee, so I enjoy spending time off campus at all the local coffee shops.

I’m definitely a busybody and love staying active. I grew up on a farm in rural Pelican Rapids, where I spent a lot of time driving tractors during harvest and raising cows and pigs. That upbringing shaped my love for the outdoors, where I especially love camping, hiking, and fishing.

I work as an emergency medical technician (EMT) for a rural ambulance service, working nights and weekends during the school year. In the summer, I stay extra busy working as a server at the Cormorant Pub and Boathouse. I also love to travel and immerse myself in different cultures and histories. One of the highlights of my college experience was traveling to Belize on a medical brigade with fellow Cobbers. We worked alongside local physicians, dentists, and pharmacists to provide healthcare to rural areas. It was rewarding to see the impact we had and to be able to give dental care supplies to each patient we met.

I am also deeply passionate about helping others, which has fueled my desire to become a physician. I volunteer with the Lakes Crisis and Resource Center and Eventide Senior Living. Both experiences have given me insight into the importance of compassionate care.

Lastly, I am super competitive! Whether it’s on the basketball court, at the clay target range, or even playing cards with friends, I love a good challenge.

How did you hear about Concordia and why did you choose to attend college here?

Growing up about an hour away, I’d always known about Concordia, but I never really pictured myself attending. I spent a lot of time here watching high school basketball championships in and eventually played multiple games here myself during high school. I knew a few people who went to Concordia, and they always had great things to say about their experience. When I visited during the pandemic, the campus was quiet with only a few students and faculty around, which made the visit a little strange. What sealed the deal was the impressive reputation of the science program and the strong support for students on the pre-med track. I also had early conversations with and was excited about the opportunity to continue playing the sport I love, while working toward my future career.

Was there a defining moment in your college search?

As soon as I toured campus, I knew Concordia was the place for me. I enjoyed the strong sense of community that reminded me of home. The campus is beautiful, the buildings are modern and welcoming, and there was just something about the atmosphere that felt right.

What do you enjoy about the Fargo-Moorhead area?

The Fargo-Moorhead area offers so many opportunities for fun and connection. I love exploring the local coffee shops because they’re a great way to get off campus and enjoy a change of scenery. There’s always something to do with friends, whether it’s trivia nights, bowling, dinner, or getting a treat from the historic Dairy Queen.

What campus activities are you involved in?    

I’m a member of the and was also part of the inaugural clay target team this past fall, which was an exciting experience. I spent two years on the Homecoming Committee, where I helped plan the alumni breakfast and information booth. In addition, I serve as a teaching assistant for the BIOL 411/412 anatomy cadaver lab, which has been an incredible journey to support fellow students.

Why did you choose to join the clay target team and play basketball at Concordia?

I decided to join the because it gave me the opportunity to compete in a sport I’m truly passionate about. I had participated in clay target throughout high school and never imagined I would have the chance to keep competing in college. So, when Concordia announced the addition of the team to athletics, I was beyond excited. I knew I wanted to be part of the inaugural team to help support and encourage the growth of the program.

I decided to play basketball at Concordia because it offered the perfect balance between academics and athletics. I loved the idea of continuing to compete while pursuing my education. I was initially worried about balancing everything, but I knew I would be lost without the structure and competition that came with being part of a team. Many of my former high school and AAU teammates were a part of the team, and I was excited to compete with them again.

What do you enjoy most about playing for the Cobbers?

For me, playing sports is a great mental break from academics. Basketball gives us a lot of time on the road, which allows us to bond as a team and build lifelong friendships. With clay target, I enjoyed spending time outside and getting some fresh air while doing something I love. I’m a very competitive person, so I thrive on the challenge and excitement that both sports bring.

How are those sports unique at Concordia?

The Cobber is unique in the fact that the team is coed — we practice and compete together, though we are scored in separate divisions. Another unique aspect is that we don’t travel for competition. Instead, we shoot at our home range, and scores are recorded and submitted electronically. What I love about clay target is that it is open to all experience levels. You don’t need prior experience to join. Everyone is welcoming, and the environment is incredibly supportive. It’s a great way to try something new, build confidence, and learn a sport you can enjoy well beyond college.

The Cobber is unique because of the strong bonds we build through travel. We spend a lot of time on the road, which gives us a chance to form close connections with our teammates and create unforgettable memories. Another thing that sets our program apart is our commitment to meaningful causes. Many of our home games are dedicated to certain events, including Coaches vs. Cancer, Mental Health Night, the Jaynie Halvorson Memorial Game, and the Alumni Game. These events highlight the impact of our sport beyond wins and losses and help us stay connected to the wider community.

What do you love most about playing for Coach Kashmark and Coach Wagers?

Coach Kashmark (clay target) brought so much joy and passion to the team. He focused on individual goals and made sure we were always on the same page. He was always willing to stay late and go the extra mile to help us improve. He truly celebrated our progress. I’ll never forget how excited he was when I shot my first perfect 25/25!

Coach Wagers (women’s basketball) has always been incredibly supportive of my busy schedule. She’s a strong advocate for putting academics first, which has been a huge help as I’ve balanced athletics with the demanding course load. Her understanding and flexibility made it easier for me to thrive both on and off the court. She always checks in about life outside of basketball as well.

The athletic office goes above and beyond to make sure student-athletes are set up for success both on and off the court. 

What do you appreciate about being a student-athlete at Concordia?

One of the things I appreciate most about being a student-athlete at Concordia is the incredible support from the community. With the launch of the new clay target team, it was amazing to see so many people interested in learning about the sport. President Irvine came out to shoot with us, which was such a fun and memorable moment. For basketball, the support in the stands was always amazing. It meant so much to see so many people show up to cheer during the games. The Cobber Sports Information team does a fantastic job promoting athletic events through social media, keeping both the campus and the surrounding community engaged. The goes above and beyond to make sure student-athletes are set up for success both on and off the court.

How did you decide on your area of study?

From the time I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to pursue science — whether it was becoming a veterinarian, a dentist, or a doctor. I grew up loving animals and playing “doctor,” always curious about how things worked. As I got older, a series of experiences pointed me toward healthcare and solidified that path. Through my work in the ambulance, I fell in love with medicine and began to understand the diversity and lifelong learning of the healthcare field. It’s a field that constantly challenges you, and that’s something I truly value.

Do you have a favorite biology or pre-med course? If so, why is it your favorite?

I have two all-time favorite classes from my time at Concordia, both biology courses, but each offers a very different experience. 

First, I really enjoyed Anatomy 411 and 412 with Dr. Rutherford. The hands-on lab experience with cadavers was fascinating. The material was challenging, but it felt like working through a complex, rewarding puzzle as we explored the different systems of the body. It was one of those classes that pushed me in the best way and deepened my interest in medicine. 

Secondly, I enjoyed Limnology with Dr. Bush. Growing up in the lakes area, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for our freshwater ecosystems. In this course, we studied lakes, rivers, wetlands, and peat bogs, getting to spend a lot of time in the field. We explored the local Buffalo River, examining fish, macroinvertebrates, and the surrounding landscape. One of the highlights was a trip to the North Shore, where we camped in the Superior National Forest. We sampled trout in a recently restored river and got to see how restoration efforts were improving fish movement. We also visited the Marcell Experimental Forest, where the researchers were conducting a 10-year study on the effects of rising temperatures and elevated CO2 levels on the peatland ecosystems. Being immersed in the forest, disconnected from our phones, and camping with classmates made the experience even more memorable.

What are the benefits of taking classes in the Integrated Science Center?

The Integrated Science Center (ISC) is such a unique and welcoming space for learning. One of the biggest benefits is how hands-on the classes are. The faculty are incredibly approachable and always open to chatting, whether it’s about classwork or just life in general. The building itself is one of my favorite places on campus. It’s filled with natural light, which makes it a great place to study and spend time. I especially love visiting all the critters in ISC — the tree frogs are my personal favorite! The plants and animals throughout the space give it such a fun and open feel.

What is your favorite Concordia tradition and why?

I love all the Homecoming activities — from the bonfire to the alumni breakfast to Cobbers Got Talent, the Johnny Holm concert, and the football game. The entire week is packed with fun, energy, and many chances to connect with friends and fellow Cobbers.

What advice would you give to a high school student who is considering Concordia?

If I could give one piece of advice to a prospective student considering Concordia, it would be to come visit campus. There are so many opportunities here, and I promise you’ll find something that fits you. Whether it’s academics, extracurriculars, or just that feeling of community, experiencing it firsthand will help you make your decision to attend Concordia. Plus, there is no better mascot than Kernel and Niblet.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your Cobber experience?

I’m incredibly grateful to have been a part of the Cobber community. It’s a place filled with caring, generous, and welcoming people who truly support one another. My biggest piece of advice? Soak it all in because the time goes by so fast. Enjoy the little moments, get involved, and make the most of every opportunity. ROLL COBBS!

^{Published April 2025}