Student Spotlight: Paul Woestehoff
Published Wednesday, April 15, 2026
For Paul Woestehoff, choosing a college wasn’t just about academics—it was about finding a place that felt like home. Growing up in Jordan, Minnesota, Paul had never been to Marshall before visiting SMSU. But the moment he stepped onto campus, he knew.
“It was kind of like love at first sight,” he said. “It just felt right. It was far enough from home to experience something new, but still welcoming. SMSU hit that ‘Goldilocks zone’ for me.”
That feeling, combined with receiving the McFarland Presidential Scholarship, sealed his decision. “Getting that scholarship was a huge cherry on top,” Paul said. “Every semester I think about how grateful I am. It made something already great even better by easing the financial stress that comes with college.”
What Paul didn’t realize at the time was that the generosity behind his scholarship extended even further. The very room where he often studies in the renovated SMSU McFarland Library was also made possible through the Pat “DC” McFarland estate gift.
“I use this collaboration room all the time,” he said during the interview, smiling. “It’s my base of operations at the end of every semester. To think the same donor supported both the library and my scholarship is amazing.”
Paul is pursuing an ambitious academic path: a double major in Vocal and Instrumental Music Education, which requires two separate state licensures.
“It’s a monster of a degree,” he laughed. “But it’s an enjoyable monster.”
With a full load of ensembles, coursework, and 18-credit semesters, Paul has immersed himself in every aspect of the program. He has spent time in K–12 classrooms across Minnesota, gaining hands-on experience from kindergarten music to high school band and choir.
One of his most meaningful experiences came through attending the Minnesota Music Educators Conference, where he connected with teachers who later welcomed him into their classrooms for extended observations. “Being in real classrooms, leading, demonstrating, connecting with students, has confirmed for me that this is exactly what I’m meant to do,” he said.
He plans to student teach in fall 2027 and is open to teaching anywhere in Minnesota. “I’ve really come to love western Minnesota,” he said. “SMSU changed my perspective. I feel at home here.”
Though deeply committed to music, Paul’s impact stretches far beyond the Fine Arts Building.
He serves as president of Enactus, SMSU’s social entrepreneurship organization, where he helps lead community-focused projects. One of them, Mindful Meals, provides healthy meals to families facing food insecurity through partnerships with local schools.
“Our team works so hard,” he said. “We’ve met families who tell us, ‘I wouldn’t have been able to feed my kids this weekend without this.’ That stays with you.”
Mindful Meals has reached dozens of families, serving thousands of meals since 2021. “Seeing the direct difference we make—it’s incredibly meaningful,” he said.
Paul also works as a math tutor in the Math Learning Center, a role he enjoys for the relationships it builds. “I love helping students build confidence. Math can be intimidating, and I want people to know they’re capable.”
And somehow, between majors, tutoring, and leadership roles, he has also served as an Orientation Leader, welcoming new students to campus each fall. “I met over 50 new students that first year,” he said. “Being a friendly face for them was really rewarding.”
Paul credits SMSU for helping him grow academically, socially, and personally. “This campus gives you so many opportunities,” he said. “You meet people across departments, try new things, and find out what you’re capable of. I’ve learned how to take advantage of opportunities—and also when I’m reaching my limit. It’s been transformative.”
When asked where he hopes to make an impact in the future, Paul didn’t hesitate. “Teachers have such an influence on their students’ lives,” he said. “I want to be the teacher students remember for making their day a little brighter, someone who gives them stability and encouragement. Even 30 minutes a day can make a difference.”
If he could thank Pat “DC” McFarland in person, Paul says he’d start with gratitude—and maybe a lighthearted question or two. “Besides asking him how he became so successful,” Paul joked, “I would tell him how incredibly impactful his gift has been.”
He continued more seriously: “His generosity has made school far less stressful for me. It’s allowed me to focus on becoming the best educator I can be. And he’s enhanced the experience for every student through the library renovation, not just scholarship recipients. His gift lives on in so many ways.”
Paul believes strongly in the power of scholarships to shape the future. “Education is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone,” he said. “Scholarships open doors that might otherwise stay closed. They help students become people who can give back to society—and someday give scholarships themselves. It creates a powerful ripple effect.”
Related Articles
