When Justin Ludwig thought about his future, one thing was certain – he didn’t want a desk job.
“Growing up, I had an interest in the human body and a passion for helping people,” he said. “Exercise science allows me to get out from behind a desk and help people achieve their health-related goals.”
That plan led the Sioux Falls, South Dakota, native to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he’s studying exercise science with minors in nutrition and coaching.
With family roots in Nebraska, Ludwig felt at home on campus, and he was impressed by the opportunities offered through the exercise science program. He points to the supportive faculty and staff as a major strength.
“All of the faculty and staff have a deep care for each student, and they want us to achieve our full potential,” he said. “This is evidenced by the professors having an open-door policy and engaging with students outside the classroom.”
The hands-on learning occurring inside the Physical Activity and Wellness Lab (PAWL) was another significant selling point. That’s where exercise science students conduct research and fitness tests, allowing them to visualize lecture material and practice real-world skills.
“The PAWL is where some of the best learning takes place and where some of my best UNK memories were made,” Ludwig said.
That hands-on education carried into his summer internship with Avera Sports in Sioux Falls, where he worked with athletes at the Avera Human Performance Center and a local school. He led training sessions, conducted evaluations and supervised workouts.
“It was a very valuable experience because it provided me with an avenue to apply the knowledge I have learned in the classroom to the real world,” he said. “During my internship, I was surrounded by people who wanted me to grow and succeed. That support created an excellent environment to ask questions and learn from my mistakes.”
Back in Kearney, Ludwig is a student worker with UNK Campus Recreation, assisting at the climbing wall inside the Wellness Center. He’s also involved in the Climbing Club, Christian Student Fellowship and Honors Program.
Off campus, he’s an accomplished soccer referee who’s officiated at regional tournaments, college matches and the Nebraska state championships, including last season’s Class B girls title game.
“Soccer is hands down my favorite sport, and being a referee allows me to enjoy the game from the best seat in the house while also staying active,” he said.
After graduating in May 2026, Ludwig plans to pursue a career as an exercise physiologist in cardiac rehab, conducting tests and prescribing exercise programs for patients recovering from heart conditions. It’s a role that brings together his passion for science, health and service.
