Major: Nursing

Year: Class of 2026

Hometown: Reedsburg, Wis.

Favorite Class: My favorite class so far has been Microbiology with Dr. Luke.

Favorite Viterbo Tradition: The president’s dinner in December before Winter break. The Caf is all decorated music is playing, and they serve great food! It is also before finals week so it is a great study break and way to destress!

Advice for New Students: Don’t let fear stop you from trying new things. There are so many fun programs, clubs, and activities where you can find what you love and meet new people. Remember everyone else is also new to this experience just like you and are just as eager to make new friends and connections.

Favorite Caf Food: I love the lasagna and garlic toast from the Caf. My go to order in the morning at Einstein’s is a Carmel cold brew shake and a chocolate chip muffin. For meal exchange at Einstein’s, I like to get the pepperoni pizza bagel.

More About Kael

“What I’ve come to appreciate most about Viterbo is how deeply the university lives out its values, especially service, hospitality and contemplation. As a student leader for Service Saturdays, I’ve had the chance to serve in the La Crosse community each month. More than that, I’ve been able to reflect on why that service matters. Whether we’re helping local organizations or welcoming students from UWL and Western for Make a Difference Day, it’s clear that Viterbo truly cares about people and connection.

That same spirit is what drew me to nursing. I’ve always loved science and knew I wanted to be in a field where I could help people, and nursing gives me the opportunity to do both. After I graduate, I hope to work in a hospital and eventually pursue an advanced nursing degree so I can keep growing in my career and care for others in the best way possible.

Viterbo has supported that journey in so many ways. I’m an orientation leader for the second year, a Supplemental Instruction tutor, and a tour guide with the admissions team. I’ve also been involved in intramurals like bowling and pickleball, sung in concert choir and St. Francis Choir, and joined groups like VSNA and Vive Voce. Being part of all these activities has helped me build confidence, make connections, and stay balanced.

I chose Viterbo because I loved the small campus and the personal feel of the community. Professors know your name, and you’re never just another face in the crowd. I’ve met some of my closest friends here. They are people who truly feel like family when I’m away from home. You can’t walk across campus without seeing someone you know or someone ready to smile and say hello.”

Interested in Nursing? 

Learn more about Viterbo’s nursing program, where hands-on clinical experience and compassionate care training prepare you to make a real difference in the lives of others.