"I learned how to read and interpret Scripture, and how to share what I am learning with those around me. I saw extreme improvement in my writing, research and reading habits, and I have made friendships at CBU that I hope to have for the rest of my life."
Quick Facts
Program: B.A. in Christian Studies
Concentration: Christian Ministries
Graduation Year: 2017
Current Job Title: Heart Cry Church
Hometown: Yucaipa, CA
Current City: Phoenix, AZ
Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I chose to become a Christian studies major after taking Church History. I was not
enjoying my previous major the way I thought I would, and Dr. Chute told me I should
add a Christian studies minor, and I ended up changing my major. I was interested
in the program because I have always been interested in working in ministry and figured
that if I worked in another field I would always be able to use the knowledge I would
gain from the CST program. This has proved to be so true. Within weeks of my first
semester in the program I was able to put to use what I was learning in the classroom.
What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
My favorite thing about the CST program at CBU is that because the program is small
I was able to get to know and become friends with the other students in the program
as well as the professors. The education is incredible, I was able to utilize what
I was learning as I was learning, and the courses are such that the material sticks.
Additionally, being able to go to Israel with my classmates really brought the Bible
to life. Sharing that experience with my professors and classmates created such a
great community in classes. Not only did we all know each other better, we could remember
and discuss what it was like reading the Sermon on the Mount where it was given thousands
of years ago.
What did you think about your professors?
My professors were absolutely incredible, they were very knowledge on the topics they
taught and open to discussion and helping me sort though my personal beliefs on various
topics. However, I never felt as though they were forcing beliefs on me, but rather,
teaching what the Bible had to say. Being a part of a smaller department meant that
I had the same professors multiple times and my classes were smaller; allowing me
to get to know all of my professors.
Did you participate in anything else at CBU?
I was a FOCUS leader in the fall of 2016, and I had a class of 29 girls. This was
an incredibly rewarding experience, and my partner and I saw God be so faithful in
answering our prayers for our students. Some of those doors have remained open and
I have been able to continue ministering to them throughout the past year.
How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
I grew spiritually by learning how to read and interpret Scripture, as well as learning
discernment, as well as how to share what I am learning with those around me. Academically
I saw extreme improvement in my writing, research and reading habits. Socially, I
have made friendships at CBU that I hope to have for the rest of my life.
Did your major help you figure out your purpose?
To some extent yes, this major has allowed me to have jobs that have guided me toward
my future career path, while what I was learning in my classes affirmed that I was
in the right field. The time spent in my classes and on my assignments was very valuable
and I know I will use it throughout my life no matter what my occupation.