School Service Center Spotlight: Joe Warner

Name: Joe Warner

Title: Outreach Specialist

Kristi: How long have you been with Nelnet?

Joe: I have worked at Nelnet for a total of about 5 1/2 years.

Kristi: What did you do prior to working with Nelnet? 

Joe: I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in December of 2005 and, since I was absolutely terrified about paying back my student loans, I applied for a job at Nelnet. This way, I could learn about my student loans and get paid at the same time. I started working at Nelnet two weeks after graduation and have never looked back.

Kristi: What is your favorite thing about the job?

Joe: I love making “connections” with people…the schools, the borrowers, guarantors, servicers, and everyone that works at Nelnet. Some of the borrowers that call into Nelnet are just like I was when I graduated from college. They’re scared, confused, and want somebody to understand and care about their situation. Most of all, they want guidance and direction, and I enjoy providing that.

I also really enjoy interacting with schools.  We speak the same language. Our specific role may be different, but our goal is the same: we’re here to help people through the educational process. It’s a job that is entirely focused on people and providing excellent service.

Kristi: What do you find most challenging?

Joe: Typically, when work is challenging I’m happy. One difficult aspect of my job is that I have a tendency to get tunnel vision when I am working on a project. Prioritizing tasks and keeping a good balance between daily responsibilities and assignments that come up is something I continue to try to improve on.

Kristi: What do you like to do for fun?

Joe: Like the typical family man, I enjoy working in the garage, golfing, gardening, yard work, playing softball, spending time with my daughter, the occasional cigar, and having BBQ’s and “weekend get-togethers” with family and friends. My wife and I just found out that we are going to have a baby in October, so we are trying to get a few house projects done before then.

Kristi: What has been the favorite place you traveled or where would you go on your dream trip?

Joe: I’ve been to some cool places (Ireland, Mexico, San Diego, Washington D.C, Chicago) and had a very good time. My dream trip would be to travel to Jerusalem and with my Dad. Other than that, I pretty much stay close to Nebraska. Since I am a huge Green Bay Packers fan, I do want to make a pilgrimage to Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin in the near future.

Kristi: What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that today’s direct loan borrowers face?

Joe: The student loan industry is complicated, and just when you think you have it figured out, something changes or a new program comes out.  The changes I have seen over the last six years have been positive, but I understand why some borrowers feel overwhelmed with paying back their student loans.

Kristi Jones, Southern Regional Director, Nelnet Partner Solutions