What inspired you to work for Bethel University?
I fell in love with Bethel first as a student. The small, close-knit campus life enabled me to work closely with my professors and form lasting relationships that continue today. It is because of these opportunities and connections that I was able to continue into formal work for the university as a campus chaplain.
Not only that, I am now the director of a program that I was once a member. I believe in the work that we do; helping students grow into young men and women that will carry us into a better future with the grace and providence of God.
Describe a typical day at work.
I have the privilege to begin the day with a time of prayer and contemplation along with any fellow employees or students who would like to join. This is the most important part of my day.
Beyond this, the time within the semester determines what I'm likely to be doing. There are usually moments within the day when we meet to counsel students, host ministry opportunities, facilitate chapel, teach a class, and volunteer in community service.
Why do you do what you do?
Because I love God and want people to know how good God is. My life, vocation, friends, and family are a gift, and anything I can do to acknowledge this is an offering back to the giver of it all. I love people because they are created in the image of God and are given unique gifts that need to be nurtured so that they can have a full life as they give back to God and others.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I think I enjoy working with students the most. I like to provide them with teachable experiences where they can help others and learn what is most important. I enjoy the rhythm of the academic year because it enables rest, refocus, collaboration, and vision.
I also enjoy that we have such a diverse student body that enables me to see and experience people from all walks of life. This is a privilege and a gift unique to college life.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
As a sociology undergrad, I've been trained to observe how people interact among each other as well as particular regions of our world. Attending seminary fine-tuned my observation skills as I was trained in an interreligious setting from a Christocentric point of view. Our denomination is globally connected which enables me to have relationships with people all over the world. These foundational experiences and trainings are vital to my work on Bethel's campus as we have an international student body, some of whom are connected with our denomination.
I can share similar cultural experiences and people within their social network and introduce them to their Bethel "family" within the United States. We are able to be united beyond our specific locations and background but particularly within our shared beliefs about God and humanity.
What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?
Some of the more challenging obstacles I face within my role are helping students navigate the responsibilities of adulthood and independence. This includes being homesick, adjustment disorders, dietary changes, anxiety/worry, loneliness, excess freedom and licentiousness, professional disciplines, managing a home, issues of personal faith journey, etc.
We often become surrogate parents to some degree by helping students manage their expectations, challenging them to rise to their potential, and admonishing or encouraging them in their various failures and successes. We rely upon a counsel for shared wisdom and often lean on scripture or prayer for discernment.
What are some current projects you are working on?
For the 2021-2022 school year, we are exploring ways to help students discern their specific callings. We have set a theme and are beginning to seek ways to incorporate it into campus events and student life.
Specifically, we are planning a trip to Colombia in the spring of 2022 to partner with our sister school and come alongside our seminary in providing global studies opportunities for spiritual discernment and cultural understanding.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
God created all people in his image. Never assume you alone speak for God or bring God with you. Look for where God is at work within the place you intend to visit and celebrate that fact with the people there. Sometimes the greatest blessing is not something you give to others but something you receive from them.
What makes Bethel University special?
Bethel and our Global Studies program is incredibly unique. It’s a full immersion into the culture of our partner countries. We do not stand outside or above them but join them in what they are already doing. We encourage and receive radical hospitality because we go to visit our friends and family.
What hopes do you have for the future for your organization?
I hope that more people begin to see what an incredible organization this is and continue to come alongside our work. I hope that it garners attention from respected academic communities and service organizations around the world. I hope that we continue to expand our opportunities so that, in time, our partners are able to join us here as well.
What makes your organization easy to market to potential participants?
I believe that our staff enables us to rise above others. We have members who are trained by the most respected universities in the world and certified through National Geographic. Our program is easy to access and you always get your money's worth.
From the moment you get on the ground, we take pride in having all things in place for an incredible multi-cultural, safe, and travel-friendly experience.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
I believe that we have much to learn from new cultures. Much of American culture is built on the presupposition that we are superior. However, if you spend any time in another culture you can begin to see that they excel in ways that we struggle.
This shared relationship can only further our knowledge and growth together. The collective wisdom and relationship should be encouraged as far as possible.
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
I believe that learning a new language implies a willingness to communicate beyond the boundaries of our cultural limits. It takes courage, thoughtfulness, self-discipline, and prioritization. As such, the growth of your new vocabulary is evidence that you desire to know more about a culture and its people. It can only further learning and love.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
I would be intentional about where you are going and why you are going. I would also encourage you to think in terms of a personal relationship or friendship. You are not going just to observe people but to be with them. Therefore, if possible, you should consider visiting more than once or creating opportunities for them to see your way of life in the future.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
I think meaningful travel includes seeing people and places that are unique to their culture. It is not necessarily finding places that are easier for Americans to access. They are the places and moments that are important to the people there. It is also finding ways to enjoin in these moments without disrupting them.
