Exploring Passions, Building Futures: Mikalah Konz’s Iowa Lakes Story

When Iowa Lakes Community College student-athlete Mikalah Konz first began exploring colleges, she wasn’t entirely sure what she wanted in a school. That changed the moment she stepped on campus at Iowa Lakes.

Close to her home in Minnesota, Iowa Lakes offered the welcoming atmosphere, small class sizes, and supportive environment she was searching for.

“The people are what make Iowa Lakes so special,” said Konz. “Everyone is so welcoming and always willing to help.”

As a member of the Iowa Lakes Women’s Wrestling program, Konz quickly found herself growing both on and off the mat. During her time at Iowa Lakes, her academic interests evolved, leading her to pursue a Graphic Design AAS degree while exploring photography courses along the way.

What began as a classroom interest soon became an opportunity to contribute directly to the wrestling program. Konz used her photography skills to help capture the team’s historic run at the 2026 NJCAA Wrestling Nationals, documenting moments of determination, perseverance, celebration, and team camaraderie throughout the national tournament.

Head Coach Corey Muniz said Konz has been an important part of the continued growth of the young program.

“Mikalah trusted in the young program we were building here and became a valuable member of our team over the past two years,” said Muniz. “At the NJCAA National Invite, she was a huge asset, and her work helped elevate our coverage during one of the biggest weekends in program history.”

Konz will return to Iowa Lakes this fall to complete her Graphic Design AAS degree while also serving as a student coach and social media coordinator for the women’s wrestling program.

Stories like Mikalah’s reflect the student experience at Iowa Lakes, where students are encouraged to explore their passions, discover new opportunities, and grow both personally and professionally.

“Iowa Lakes is a place that allows student-athletes to develop not only as athletes, but also as future professionals preparing for their careers,” added Muniz.