admissions / en First-gen student discovering purpose and community at Calvin /stories/first-gen-student-discovering-purpose-and-community-calvin <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">First-gen student discovering purpose and community at Calvin</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-11-11T13:18:19-05:00" title="Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - 13:18" class="datetime">Tue, 11/11/2025 - 13:18</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Judith Mukamurenzi ‘27 is a junior at Ƶ, majoring in <a href="/majors-programs/finance-major-ba">finance</a> and <a href="/majors-programs/marketing-major-ba">marketing</a> and minoring in <a href="/academics/school-humanities-arts-and-social-sciences/ministry-leadership">ministry leadership</a>. As a first-generation college student, she’s aiming to be the first in her immediate family to earn a four-year college degree.&nbsp;<br><br>Now in her third year at Calvin, Mukamurenzi reflects back on the barriers she initially faced when she was deciding on which college to attend, the support she’s received along the way, and how she’s not just pursuing a degree at Calvin, but on a journey to discover her God-given purpose.</p><h5>When you were considering colleges, what was the biggest barrier you faced?</h5><p>The biggest barrier I faced was financial. My family couldn’t afford to send me to college, but I believed that if I did my part, God would make a way. I worked hard all through high school, giving my best and trusting God to handle the rest, which He did.&nbsp;I saw education as more than just my future, it was a way to create new possibilities for my family, and that’s what kept me going.</p><h5>Why did you choose to come to Calvin? How did Calvin help you overcome that barrier?</h5><p>Calvin checked every box I was praying for. I was looking for a school that would <a href="/financial-aid">support me financially</a> and help me grow spiritually. Calvin provided both. I received a&nbsp;generous financial aid package that made it possible for me to attend, and I found a Christ-centered community that has poured into me in ways I didn’t expect. Calvin didn’t just give me access to higher education; It’s also a place where I am growing in my faith, purpose, and calling.</p><h5>What's something that's surprised you so far about your Calvin experience?</h5><p>What’s surprised me most is how much you grow as a person beyond the classroom. Calvin’s liberal arts approach challenges you to think deeply and see life from different perspectives. My professors and peers have encouraged me to ask hard questions, stay grounded in my faith, and see learning as a journey that shapes both the mind and the heart.</p><h5>How have you been supported during your time at Calvin?</h5><p>I have been supported in so many ways. <a href="/student-success/trio">TRIO Student Support Services</a> was a big part of my&nbsp;first-year experience. Even though I took dual enrollment courses in high school, being a full-time college student was completely new. TRIO guided me through that transition and helped me believe in myself when things felt unfamiliar. Their mentorship inspired me to become a TRIO ambassador so I could give back to other students who are just beginning their college journey.</p><h5>How have you gotten involved and found community here?</h5><p>Community is one of my favorite parts of Calvin. I have had the chance to serve as the community outreach director for the African Student Association, which allowed me to celebrate culture and connect with others who share similar roots. I was also part of the <a href="/majors-programs/ministry-leadership-cohort">ministry leadership cohort</a>, where I grew in faith and learned what it means to serve with others who love God. My friends and I even started a prayer group where we encourage and uplift one another. And now, as a Nexus financial coach, I get to combine everything I am passionate about: faith, finance, and mentorship, by walking alongside students in their financial and spiritual growth.</p><h5>Would you recommend Calvin to other&nbsp;first-generation students? Why?</h5><p>Absolutely. Calvin has an amazing community for&nbsp;first-generation students that feels like family. Through programs like TRIO and Calvin&nbsp;First, I have met people who understand the unique challenges we face and who&nbsp;genuinely want to see us succeed. The support here is real. You are surrounded by people who believe in you, pray for you, and celebrate your wins. As a&nbsp;first-generation student, that means everything. Calvin is not just a place to earn a degree, it is a place to be transformed, to grow in faith, and to discover the purpose God placed within you.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-11-11T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Tue, 11/11/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/first-gen-student-discovering-purpose-and-community-calvin" data-a2a-title="First-gen student discovering purpose and community at Calvin"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/589" hreflang="en">School of Business</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-11/JudithMukamurenziCalvinUniversity2025.jpg?itok=EP_Z9Oic" width="1090" height="545" alt="Judith Mukamurenzi" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/first-gen-student-finds-support-and-belonging-calvin" hreflang="en">First-gen student finds support and belonging at Calvin</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/first-gen-student-dreaming-bigger-calvin-university" hreflang="en">First-Gen Student Dreaming Bigger at Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/calvin-university-top-pick-first-gen-students" hreflang="en">Ƶ a Top Pick for First-gen Students</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/academics/school-business" hreflang="en">School of Business</a></div> </div> </div> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:18:19 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 39305 at Student finding place at Calvin and in Air National Guard /stories/student-finding-place-calvin-and-air-national-guard <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Student finding place at Calvin and in Air National Guard</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-11-10T15:09:03-05:00" title="Monday, November 10, 2025 - 15:09" class="datetime">Mon, 11/10/2025 - 15:09</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>When Jared Genthner ‘29 graduated from high school in 2024, he knew where he was going to college.<br><br>“As soon as I did the tour of campus it stood out to me that this is the place I wanted to go,” said Genthner.<br><br>But while Genthner knew he was heading to Ƶ, he also envisioned a career in the Air National Guard.<br><br>“I wanted to take opportunities into my own hands when they came my way and the Air National Guard was something that stood out to me, especially since my uncle was already trying to recruit us cousins for years,” said Genthner.</p><h3>Doing both</h3><p>Fortunately for Genthner, he didn’t have to choose between the two. He discovered <a href="/financial-aid/types-aid/military-veterans">a path to do both</a>. Upon graduating from Jackson High School, Genthner spent the next year doing all of his training for the Air National Guard, which included spending six months in Mississippi.<br><br>Now, as a first-year student at Calvin, he’s found his rhythm, which includes taking a full load of classes and then going to base in Battle Creek, Michigan one weekend a month and then somewhere nationally or internationally for two weeks each summer.<br><br>“Both Calvin and the Air National Guard have been helpful in making this possible for me,” said Genthner. “I’ve had a lot of support from the Registrar’s office and a lot of understanding from teachers and staff to allow me to have both on my plate at the same time.”</p><h3>Discovering community</h3><p>At Calvin, Genthner, who is majoring in <a href="/majors-programs/environmental-science-and-studies-majors-minor">environmental studies</a> with a focus in <a href="/majors-programs/geography-major-minor">geography</a>, is preparing to work somewhere in the realm of forestry and conservation science. While he is appreciative of how Calvin is preparing him for a future career, he’s most impressed with how quickly he’s found community.<br><br>“Something I’ve been so surprised by is how quickly I’ve found my own community, not just in one place, but in so many,” said Genthner. “As I’ve seen the year progress, communities have also progressed. In making connections, I’ve found that my friends know each other’s friends. It’s really cool to see how God works through all of us.”<br><br>In choosing a college, Genther said finding a place that would encourage him to grow in his faith was also important. It’s one of the reasons he applied to the <a href="/majors-programs/ministry-leadership-cohort">Ministry Leadership Cohort</a>.<br><br>“It’s been a great way to grow in my faith and also to have a community right from the start,” said Genthner. “We take classes together and we eat lunch together, and it’s a good time.”<br><br>And coming from a small town, Onondaga, whose population is no more than the size of Calvin’s student body, Genthner especially appreciates the diversity of people and perspectives he’s encountering at Calvin.<br><br>“It’s really rewarding to see how people from all sorts of places and different walks of life and with varying perspectives can connect,” said Genthner. “It’s allowed me to grow personally.”</p><h3>Feeling well supported</h3><p>While Genthner’s Calvin and Air National Guard journeys are just getting off the ground, he’s appreciative of how the Calvin community has supported him along the way.<br><br>“They’ve [Calvin] been really helpful. Even in the summer, I was getting emails once a week just checking in and I’ve been able to work with lots of people who are helping me and supporting me,” said Genthner. “I’d say Calvin is <a href="/financial-aid/types-aid/military-veterans">a very veteran friendly place</a>."</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-11-10T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Mon, 11/10/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/student-finding-place-calvin-and-air-national-guard" data-a2a-title="Student finding place at Calvin and in Air National Guard"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-11/JaredGenthnerCalvinUniversityAirNationalGuard.jpg?itok=GK7nQbBd" width="1090" height="545" alt="Jared Genthner" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/us-news-world-report-ranks-calvin-university-1-teaching" hreflang="en">U.S. News &amp; World Report ranks Ƶ #1 for teaching</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/getting-ready-fly-calvin-university" hreflang="en">Getting Ready to Fly at Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/enlisting-army-enrolling-calvin-university" hreflang="en">Enlisting in the Army, Enrolling at Ƶ</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/geology-geography-and-environment" hreflang="en">Geology, Geography, and Environment</a></div> </div> </div> Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:09:03 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 39283 at First-gen student finds support and belonging at Calvin /stories/first-gen-student-finds-support-and-belonging-calvin <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">First-gen student finds support and belonging at Calvin</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-11-05T10:47:35-05:00" title="Wednesday, November 5, 2025 - 10:47" class="datetime">Wed, 11/05/2025 - 10:47</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Elaina El-Khoury ‘27 is studying <a href="/majors-programs/operations-and-supply-chain-management-major-bs-minor">operations and supply chain management</a> &amp; <a href="/majors-programs/business-analytics-major-bs">business analytics</a> at Ƶ. El-Khoury, who hails from Lebanon, is a first-generation college student, meaning she’s aiming to be the first in her immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Now in her junior year, El-Khoury reflects back on the challenges she faced as a first-gen student, the support she’s received along the way, and the rewarding journey she’s been on over the past few years.</p><h5>When you were considering college, what was the biggest barrier you faced?</h5><p>When I was thinking about college, the hardest part was figuring everything out on my own and making sure it was <a href="/financial-aid">financially possible</a>. There wasn’t really a clear roadmap for me, so I had to take the time to learn about applications, scholarships, and what options were realistic. It was a lot to manage, but it helped me grow more independent and resourceful.</p><h5>How did Calvin help you overcome that barrier? Why did you choose Calvin?</h5><p>Before I became a Calvin student, during my senior year of high school, I visited campus several times and immediately noticed the strong sense of community. Everyone I met was welcoming and genuine, which made Calvin feel like a place where I could truly belong. As a first-generation student, I didn’t always know what to expect from college, but Calvin had a very supportive and welcoming environment (admissions team, financial advisors, mentors) which made the transition feel less overwhelming. They helped me find the resources I needed, answered every question I had concerning finances and transition, which made me feel more prepared and confident to take the big next step.&nbsp;<br><br>I also would like to add faith. When I moved from Lebanon to the U.S., I still had a strong faith, but I found it harder to stay consistent with prayer and church. Coming to Calvin helped me reconnect and grow spiritually. Through chapel, Bible studies, and the people I met here, I felt encouraged to live out my faith more openly. Even though I come from a different denomination, I’ve always felt included and supported. Being part of this community has helped me grow closer to God and continually strengthen my faith throughout my journey at Calvin.</p><h5>What's something that's surprised you so far about your Calvin experience?</h5><p>One of the things I really appreciate about Calvin is its diversity, not only among students but also in the way different majors and disciplines connect with one another. I find it amazing how everything here feels interconnected. We’re encouraged to learn beyond our own majors, which helps us become more aware, well-rounded, and thoughtful. I love that Calvin continues to grow in this way, and it’s exciting to be part of a community that values both academic connection and personal growth.</p><h5>How have you been supported during your time at Calvin?</h5><p>I’ve been supported in so many ways here at Calvin. In the beginning, even though I’ve always been a talkative person, it was hard for me to open up and ask for help, whether it was about navigating classes and assignments or dealing with personal and social challenges. Over time, I realized how strong the community around me is. Through <a href="/student-success/trio">TRIO</a>, the first-gen program, and groups like CISD, I found people who understood what I was going through. Being surrounded by students who shared similar experiences helped me let my guard down and feel comfortable asking for help. It’s made a big difference to know I’m not alone, that there are people who truly listen, support, and guide you rather than just saying, “It’ll get better.”</p><h5>How have you gotten involved and found community here?</h5><p>It definitely wasn’t easy to find a community where I felt like I truly fit in. Navigating that part of college was tough, but I kept pushing myself to get involved in different student orgs, clubs, and leadership roles to see where I felt most at ease. For about two years, I was in and out of friend groups and organizations, and honestly, it was a challenging process. But by God’s grace and through a lot of prayer, I’ve finally found where I belong. I’m now surrounded by people who uplift me and make me feel genuinely comfortable. It’s been a journey, but through it all, I’ve learned what’s best for me and where I’m meant to be.</p><h5>Would you recommend Calvin to other first-gen students? Why?</h5><p>Definitely yes!!! I didn’t really know what “first-gen” meant before I came to Calvin, but Calvin has shown me how meaningful it is to be one. There’s a strong sense of support and pride in being part of the first-gen community here. Through programs like TRIO and First-Gen Connect, I’ve met people who understand my experiences and genuinely want to see me succeed. Calvin celebrates that part of who we are and provides the resources, mentorship, and encouragement that help first-gen students not just adjust but truly thrive.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-11-05T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Wed, 11/05/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/first-gen-student-finds-support-and-belonging-calvin" data-a2a-title="First-gen student finds support and belonging at Calvin"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/589" hreflang="en">School of Business</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-11/Elaina%20El-Khoury%20Calvin%20University.jpg?itok=b7T2psyU" width="1090" height="545" alt="Elaina El-Khoury" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/first-gen-student-dreaming-bigger-calvin-university" hreflang="en">First-Gen Student Dreaming Bigger at Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news-stories/when-college-no-longer-abstract-idea" hreflang="en">When college is no longer an abstract idea</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/calvin-university-top-pick-first-gen-students" hreflang="en">Ƶ a Top Pick for First-gen Students</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:47:35 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 39257 at Why I chose Ƶ in 2025 /stories/why-i-chose-calvin-university-2025 <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Why I chose Ƶ in 2025</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-08-29T12:39:43-04:00" title="Friday, August 29, 2025 - 12:39" class="datetime">Fri, 08/29/2025 - 12:39</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The fall semester at Ƶ is officially underway. Students from dozens of high schools across west Michigan, more than 130 cities across the state, and dozens of countries spanning six continents are now on campus for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Calvin student body now represents 3,600 students from 48 U.S. states, 5 Canadian provinces, and more than 60 countries around the world.<br><br>As the incoming class of 1,000-plus students begins their time at Calvin this fall, we asked seven students from Michigan, the Midwest, and across the world, all majoring in different areas of study, why they chose Calvin and what they are most excited about as they begin their college journey.</p><h3>How did Calvin come on your radar?</h3><p><strong>Bidengy Jean Louis (Haiti):</strong> To be honest, there was a competition between my brother and I of choosing a college. I always do research about Ƶ, and he would do research about another college, and we would sometimes argue about that, talk about whose college is better. I tell him my college is better because of the community and the Christian environment they have around them and how they get along with each other.<br><br><strong>Sophia Nelson (Youngstown, Ohio):</strong> My mom went here, so I heard about it a bunch from her and I decided to take a look at it and go to the admitted students day and it was really cool and they were really intentional about getting to know me and make sure that I was comfortable with being here.<br><br><strong>Olivia Klomp (Crete, Illinois):</strong> Through my high school counselor. He went here, so he was really pushing it.<br><br><strong>Kyla Johnson (Byron Center, Michigan):</strong> My mom went here, my grandma went here, my great grandma went here, and my great, great grandma went here. So, I’m a fifth-generation woman at Calvin, so I heard about it from family and specifically from my sister she was like you should totally go here.<br><br><strong>Sam Deutschmann (Byron Center, Michigan):</strong> I first heard about Calvin from my mom, she went here for her masters, and she loved it. She loved the community. She loved getting to meet a whole bunch of new people.</p><h3>What was the tipping point?</h3><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-08/StudentsMoveInDayCalvinUniversity2025.jpg?itok=saSuLYk5" width="1090" height="545" alt="Philip Kirkpatrick (left), Sophia Nelson (right), 2025-2026 Calvin students" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>Philip Kirkpatrick (Hutchinson, Minnesota):</strong> I think the campus visit did a lot. I really liked the smaller atmosphere and not feeling like you’re getting lost, it’s near family, and I like the area.<br><br><strong>Junseo Kweon (South Korea):</strong> The financial aid and the Christian environment.</p><p><strong>Sophia:</strong> Based on all the schools I was looking at, Calvin had more of a community feel and it just really felt like if I needed something here, I wasn’t just a number, I was someone they care about and someone that they want to thrive.<br><br><strong>Olivia:</strong> I chose Calvin because it has a five-year program where you graduate with your masters and also I just love the Christian community.<br><br><strong>Kyla:</strong> I chose Calvin because I love the graphic design program and am really excited about that and my sister had gone here and she told me how great of a school it was, that she loved it and thought it was amazing. I also chose it because of the really great community.</p><p><strong>Sam:</strong> It really came down to scholarships. That was the big thing. Calvin gave me more scholarships than any other school did.</p><h3>What are you most excited about?</h3><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-08/StudentsCalvinUniversityFall2025FirstYear.jpg?itok=rKkfZfQn" width="1090" height="545" alt="Three incoming students for Ƶ in 2025-2026" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>Olivia:</strong> I’m just excited to meet new people and take classes that actually interest me.<br><br><strong>Sam:</strong> I’m most excited for meeting new people and getting to experience the medical programs and all the science programs here.</p><p><strong>Junseo:</strong> I’m excited to meet some new professors, take new classes, and also for other activities outside of the campus.<br><br><strong>Bidengy:</strong> I am always excited about everything, excited to get involved in the club soccer team, excited to make new friends, and get to know more of Calvin and the other students.</p><p><strong>Sophia: </strong>I’m really excited to look more into my major, so taking all the political science classes. I think that’s what I’m most excited about, learning more about what I want to do.</p><p><strong>Philip:</strong> I’m excited to spread my wings a bit, try some new things, be on my own.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-08-29T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Fri, 08/29/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/why-i-chose-calvin-university-2025" data-a2a-title="Why I chose Ƶ in 2025"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">Yes</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-08/StudentsCalvinUniversityFall2025.jpg?itok=pYhhfe2k" width="1090" height="545" alt="Two new Calvin students for 2025-2026" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>Left to right: Bidengy Jean Louis (international business) and Junseo Kweon (computer science) are first-year students at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/calvin-university-welcomes-more-1000-new-students-third-consecutive-year" hreflang="en">Ƶ Welcomes More Than 1,000 New Students for Third Consecutive Year</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/reflections-calvin-university-class-2025" hreflang="en">Reflections from the Ƶ Class of 2025</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/seniors-confirm-calvin-university-was-right-decision" hreflang="en">Seniors confirm Ƶ was right decision</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:39:43 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38484 at Q&A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban /stories/qa-entrada-grad-kwesi-abban <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban </span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-31T16:00:38-04:00" title="Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 16:00" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 16:00</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Kwesi Abban (KG) ’29 is from Germantown, Maryland. When he was choosing a college, he relied on the recommendation of his sister and one of her friends who both had positive experiences at Calvin. He said the fact that the university was Christian-based and strong in computer science were key factors in his decision to enroll.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>Incentivized by the possibility of a $4,000 renewable scholarship and the ability to better understand how rigorous college coursework would be, Abban signed up for a preview of college: the <a href="/college-access-programs/entrada-scholars-program">Entrada Scholars Program</a>.</p><h4>What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?</h4><p>How as a Christian community, most people share similar values.</p><h4>Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …&nbsp;</h4><p>I feel more confident in myself and how I will do in college.</p><h4>How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?</h4><p>I would have felt very nervous. Honestly, I thought about this, I tried thinking about what it would have been like if I didn’t do this Entrada thing. I think I would have been very nervous about college, wondering how I am going to do this, where I would need to go if I needed help and all that.</p><h4>What's your experience with professors been like?</h4><p>My professor was wonderful. She was always ready to help and would even stay two hours after class. Yesterday, I needed my laptop for the final and I left it in the classroom, and she was still there. She was great.</p><h4>How have you experienced community?</h4><p>I like a quiet community and coming to Calvin this is the best place. This is where I fit in because it’s quiet and it’s peaceful. No one is going to judge you or criticize you for anything, they all care about you. When someone is feeling sad or something is going on, you are going to have someone who is going to approach you and talk to you.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-kwesi-abban" data-a2a-title="Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban "><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-07/KwesiAbbanCalvinUniversityEntradaScholarsProgram.jpg?itok=QA0l530Y" width="1090" height="545" alt="Kwesi Abban" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>In 2025, Kwesi Abban begins his studies in computer science at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-landon-dykema" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Landon Dykema</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-yohana-yigezu" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-rayn-rutley" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/academics/school-stem/computer-science" hreflang="en">Computer Science</a></div> </div> </div> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:00:38 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38104 at Q&A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez /stories/qa-entrada-grad-emma-rodriguez <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez </span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-31T15:57:27-04:00" title="Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 15:57" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:57</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Emma Rodriguez ’29 is from Bloomingdale, Illinois. While Calvin wasn’t initially on her college wish list, she said “through word of mouth” she was convinced she needed to give it a look. While she didn’t think she’d end up at Calvin, she paid a visit and said she had a gut feeling that “this is it, this is home.”&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>Craving finding community early on, she enrolled in the <a href="/college-access-programs/entrada-scholars-program">Entrada Scholars Program</a> and calls the monthlong college immersion experience a win-win. “I made friends, and I get a renewable scholarship.”</p><h4>How has your view of college changed since attending Entrada?</h4><p>I feel like everyone’s first inkling about college is from movies—it all looks so exciting and that’s what I was hoping it would be. My parents said it would be nothing like the movies, that it was going to be super hard, and I’d need to work a lot. Then, when I came here, I discovered that my parents were right, but the movies were also accurate. It can be both. You just have to manage your time well.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>I can go to events, make new friends, while still studying and doing well in class. I learned when to say no to things and when it was worth it to say yes. It’s a balance.</p><h4>What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?</h4><p>I’m not as alone as I thought I was in my faith. I found it hard to find teens my age who believe the same thing and have the same core values and views in the world. At the end of my senior year of high school I was kind of losing hope. I wondered are there really other people who believe the same things I do? &nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>I found that there are people here that are so full of this fire for God and have such wisdom and are really mature and there are people out there like me who I can relate to and talk to. I couldn’t see it because I was stuck in my own community, but now I’m here and there are people like me all over the place. I’ve heard so many different stories of students from different countries and states, so while it felt like we were alone, when you put us all in this place it becomes much easier to see the bigger picture. We didn’t know who each other was last month, but now we are such a tight-knit group. I now feel hope again for my generation.</p><h4>Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …</h4><p>Myself, and my ability to do hard things. And this covers a broad range of things, from asking for help from my peers to not being afraid to dive into something new.</p><h4>How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?</h4><p>I don’t even want to think about it. I would have been so confused.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>The program plus the RAs (resident assistants), who have a lot in common as they were in our position just a year or two prior, do a really good job of holding our hands, showing us how to prepare for the fall. The academic coaching is also a good refresher on how to take notes, how to do well in classes. This experience has been an easy win into college and now I’ll come back in a few weeks, with all of this fresh on my mind. It’s nice to have someone help you take that first step into college when you know nothing about it.</p><h4>Anything else you’d like to add?</h4><p>I think that they should make expand Entrada and open up more spots for people. I wish that every college student coming to Calvin had this kind of experience. Entrada is more than a class, it’s building a mindset, learning new skills, making all these friends—friendships that are only a few weeks old, but I feel will last a lifetime.&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-emma-rodriguez" data-a2a-title="Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez "><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-07/EmmaRodriguezCalvinUniversityEntradaScholarsProgram.jpg?itok=yemHtpvv" width="1090" height="545" alt="Emma Rodriguez" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>Beginning in 2025, Emma Rodriguez is excited to study fine arts and business at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:57:27 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38103 at Q&A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu /stories/qa-entrada-grad-yohana-yigezu <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu </span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-31T15:53:51-04:00" title="Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 15:53" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:53</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Yohana Yigezu ’29 is from Cairo, Egypt. While she never visited campus before deciding on coming to Calvin, she had plenty of positive feedback from those at her church, who she says, “are almost all alumni from Calvin.”</p><p>Her first visit came in July 2025 during the <a href="/college-access-programs/entrada-scholars-program">Entrada Scholars Program</a>. She said that one-month college immersion experience gave her time to “not only prepare for college life, but also to experience living in the U.S. for the first time.</p><h4>How has your view of college changed since attending Entrada?&nbsp;</h4><p>It’s changed because everyone tells you it’s a lot of work, a lot of time management –But when you experience it, it is different. So, in navigating that you see that ‘oh wow, I need to step up my game for college.’ I was scared to make new friends, take new courses, but I realized it’s not as scary as I thought it would be. In high school you hear people say that no one will help you in college and that you’re on your own, but in the Entrada program I had a lot more support than what I was expecting.</p><h4>What’s your experience been like with professors?</h4><p>Coming here and professors saying ‘you can call me by my first name’ or ‘here’s snacks for you to share while we study’ or them opening up office hours to spend time with you wasn’t something I was used to. I grew up in an educational environment with clear lines between teacher and student. But here, I’ve found there to be an element of friendship and care that I really like.</p><h4>What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?</h4><p>My greatest takeaway would be “do it scared” – I think there’s so many new things I had to do and learn that I was scared or nervous about, but those 30 seconds of fear before meeting a new person, that 20 minutes of learning a new thing you were scared to admit you didn’t know is not even comparable to what I ended up learning or friendships I ended up making. It was worth it. Putting myself out there, doing it scared, gave me a much greater reward.</p><h4>Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …</h4><p>I feel more confident in coming to university and starting in the fall. I think that if I hadn’t done Entrada, had to start all of my classes all at once, to not know where everything is, and to experience living in the U.S. for the first time, that would have been much scarier for me.&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-yohana-yigezu" data-a2a-title="Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu "><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/570" hreflang="en">engineering</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-07/YohanaYigezuCalvinUniversityEntradaScholarsProgram.jpg?itok=o8IuSu9q" width="1090" height="545" alt="Yohana Yigezu" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>In 2025, Yohana Yigezu begins her studies in civil engineering at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-emma-rodriguez" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-rayn-rutley" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-landon-dykema" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Landon Dykema</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/engineering" hreflang="en">Engineering</a></div> </div> </div> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:53:51 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38102 at Q&A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley /stories/qa-entrada-grad-rayn-rutley <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-31T15:50:23-04:00" title="Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 15:50" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:50</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Rayn Rutley ’29 is from Fenton, Michigan. When she was a senior in high school, Ƶ came on her radar. As she started to dive deeper into her college search, she discovered a sense of community at Calvin and got the sense that the university cared holistically for its students. &nbsp;&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>So, this summer, she decided to get a taste of the college experience through the <a href="/college-access-programs/entrada-scholars-program">Entrada Scholars Program</a>. Not used to being away from home, she wanted to move out of her comfort zone. Her lived experience at Calvin over the past month confirmed that her decision to attend this fall was the right one.</p><h4>How has your view of college changed since attending Entrada?</h4><p>I feel like through Entrada it’s taught me the value of having self-discipline, especially with time management and knowing where you should prioritize certain activities vs. yourself. It’s also helped me get a feel for what college is actually going to be like.</p><h4>What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?&nbsp;</h4><p>I would say my greatest takeaway was the friends that I made and also the memories I got to create with other people. I also learned how to socialize and put myself out there with people I’m not as comfortable with or know as well.</p><h4>Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …&nbsp;</h4><p>Socializing with other people, I also feel more confident in my work ethic and what I need to do to be a good citizen in society and also just being more confident in my foundation in Christ.</p><h4>How have you grown in your relationship with Christ?&nbsp;</h4><p>My faith is a big aspect of my life and so I wanted to be able to know that going on into college that God would still be the center of my life, even in my education. And receiving an education with that lens would also help me to surrender my academics and how I do in school to God. I have definitely seen the sense of community that I was looking for here. I think people push you to be better and hold you to a standard of being a Christian and what that actually means and challenge you to know that for yourself.</p><h4>How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?</h4><p>I feel like I would have felt very unprepared, and I would have a lack of understanding of what it means to be independent and to balance your social, academic, and athletic life.&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-rayn-rutley" data-a2a-title="Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/612" hreflang="en">School of Health</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-07/RaynRutleyCalvinUniversityEntradaScholarsProgram.jpg?itok=Hl4juG4O" width="1090" height="545" alt="Rayn Rutley" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>Beginning in 2025, Rayn Rutley is excited to begin her studies in exercise science and kinesiology at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-emma-rodriguez" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-yohana-yigezu" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-kwesi-abban" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban </a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/kinesiology" hreflang="en">Kinesiology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/academics/school-health" hreflang="en">School of Health</a></div> </div> </div> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:50:23 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38101 at Q&A with Entrada grad Landon Dykema /stories/qa-entrada-grad-landon-dykema <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Landon Dykema</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2025-07-31T15:45:17-04:00" title="Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 15:45" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:45</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Landon Dykema ’29 is from Hudsonville, Michigan. His dad went to Calvin. His mom went to Hope. Making his college decision process even more complicated is that in his words “both schools have fantastic pre-med programs.” So, he had a tough decision. So, he visited both schools.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>And the visit made all the difference. “When I visited Hope, the scenery was nice, but I didn’t feel that family aspect that I did at Calvin.”&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>This summer, Dykema jumped into the college experience through the <a href="/college-access-programs/entrada-scholars-program">Entrada Scholars Program</a>—earning college credits and a renewable $4,000 scholarship in the process.</p><h4>What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?</h4><p>I came into this just looking forward to money [scholarship] and class credit, but I made friendships and relationships that I’ll have for the rest of my life. And I know going into this school year I don’t have to be worried about who I’m going to meet. Yes, I’ll meet new people, but I’ll have friends to go to in my first week of school as a rock, and I also grew a lot in my faith throughout Entrada and I’m reading my Bible a lot more, because there’s a drive, everyone here cares so deeply that it makes you want to feel that same feeling. God has really spoken to me through everyone here.</p><h4>Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …&nbsp;</h4><p>My ability to spread joy. I think through both meeting new people and learning more about Jesus Christ I saw that there’s a lot of love that goes around and especially in different cultures. Learning about different cultures allows you to grow and kind of express your willingness to learn new things, and I think that joy comes with that because it brings joy spending time with people. Humans like to communicate, we like to spend time with others, and I’ve done a lot of that during my time in Entrada and that’s brought me a lot of joy and I’m better capable of spreading joy to other people now.</p><h4>How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?&nbsp;</h4><p>I would have been terrified because I was already nervous going into Entrada and that’s just a month, so I can’t imagine thinking about a whole year where I’d be jumping right into the deep end. But now I’ve gotten this gradual increase into college where I know what the campus looks like, I know a lot of people, I know kind of how the coursework lines up and different tests, exams, so I feel much more prepared and ready for college now and I’m not anxious or stressed because I’ve learned God will provide and He will straighten my paths even if I’m worried. I’m definitely more confident now.</p><h4>Anything else you’d like to add?&nbsp;</h4><p>I think definitely a lot of people, including myself, were kind of wanting it just to be over early on, and as time went by it started moving too quickly. Hold on, hold on, I don’t want to leave yet. It was kind of switch over. I was open to meeting new people, open to new activities. In beginning, I wanted to get home to my family, to my girlfriend, now it’s like ‘wow, this is already over?’ Just take advantage of all the opportunities you get for whole group activities, individual with other people study times, those are times where you grow with people. And if you are just secluding yourself, you won’t get that sense of family that Entrada is.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-landon-dykema" data-a2a-title="Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Landon Dykema"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/612" hreflang="en">School of Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/547" hreflang="en">Athletics</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">No</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2025-07/LandonDykemaCalvinUniversityEntradaScholarsProgram.jpg?itok=IIwDEVFb" width="1090" height="545" alt="Landon Dykema" class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-above"> <div>Feature image caption</div> <div class="field__item"><p>In 2025, Landon Dykema will begin studying pre-med and playing volleyball at Ƶ.</p></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-related-news field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Related news</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-emma-rodriguez" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-kwesi-abban" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban </a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/stories/qa-entrada-grad-rayn-rutley" hreflang="en">Q&amp;A with Entrada grad Rayn Rutley</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Departments</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/academics/school-health" hreflang="en">School of Health</a></div> </div> </div> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:45:17 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 38100 at Six Tips For Finishing Your College Application /stories/six-tips-finishing-your-college-application <span class="field field--name-title field--type-string field--label-hidden">Six Tips For Finishing Your College Application</span> <span class="field field--name-uid field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden"><span>msk23@calvin.edu</span></span> <span class="field field--name-created field--type-created field--label-hidden"><time datetime="2024-12-16T11:19:33-05:00" title="Monday, December 16, 2024 - 11:19" class="datetime">Mon, 12/16/2024 - 11:19</time> </span> <div class="clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>While many high school seniors have already submitted applications for college admission, there are also a significant number who have started filling one out but haven’t completed it. According to national statistics, the reason someone pushes pause isn’t necessarily or even likely because they don’t aspire to go to college.&nbsp;</p><p>Melissa Rousseau, director of admissions at Ƶ, offers six common reasons students haven’t yet completed their application and practical steps for helping them get unstuck.</p><p><strong>Ready to complete your application?</strong> <a href="/admissions/apply"><strong>Get started here</strong></a>.</p><blockquote><h3>1. I’m waiting to retake my SAT.</h3><p>If you aren't satisfied with your SAT score and don’t want to wait to retake it before applying, you can check to see if the schools you are considering are test-optional.</p><p><strong>At Calvin, </strong><a href="/admissions/apply/test-optional">we offer a test-optional process</a> so that you can have less barriers to being considered for admission.</p></blockquote><blockquote><h3>2. “I’m stuck on the essay.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>If you’re feeling stuck on your essay, find a favorite teacher or mentor and just talk to them about why you want to go to college. They might help you find what it is that excites you and <em>that</em> could be a great essay topic.</p><p><strong>At Calvin, </strong>we’re not looking for a novel, just a great insight into who you are and why you’re excited for this next big step.</p></blockquote><blockquote><h3>3. “I am no longer interested in the school that I thought was my top option.”</h3><p>I'd encourage you to make a list of other colleges/universities you’d consider and <a href="https://www.commonapp.org/explore/calvin-university">apply using the Common App</a>. Even if you haven't visited them yet, it's important to start the process by applying for admission. This provides schools with an opportunity to get to know you while you are getting to know them.</p><p><strong>At Calvin, </strong>applying is a great step, because as soon as you’re admitted you’ll be invited to engage in many different resources and events that can help you dive deeper into the college experience.&nbsp; You’ll also learn about valuable financial aid options that are only shared with admitted students.</p></blockquote><blockquote><h3>4. “I’m unable to find the extra money for my application fee.”</h3><p>This isn’t uncommon. But, unfortunately it’s one of the more common reasons people wait to hit “submit.” So, first make sure you haven’t missed the deadline to apply for free. If you have, know that at most schools that app fee can be waived. You just have to ask!</p><p><strong>At Calvin, </strong>you can <a href="/admissions/apply">apply for free</a> by using the code 1876 (the year we were founded)!</p></blockquote><blockquote><h3>5. “It’s probably too late to apply” or “I don’t understand the deadlines.”</h3><p>While it’s important to apply sooner than later so that you can get all the information you need to make your college selection and take advantage of additional scholarship opportunities, many schools accept applications on a rolling basis.</p><p><strong>At Calvin, </strong><a href="/admissions/apply">when you apply</a> you will have a guide (an admissions counselor) who can help you navigate the entire admissions process so that you <a href="/admissions/first-year-students">understand the necessary deadlines</a>.</p></blockquote><blockquote><h3>6. “I’m undecided on what I want to study.”</h3><p>You are not alone. In fact, national statistics show that 12-14% of first-year college students are unsure of what they want to study at the time of filling out their application. And that shouldn’t be looked at as a disadvantage. In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 80% of college students change their major at least once during their undergraduate career.</p><p><strong>At Calvin</strong>, we see learning as a journey and process. You’ll have plenty of opportunities through <a href="https://catalog.calvin.edu/">core curriculum courses</a>, academic clubs and activities and internships to explore different fields.</p><p>In your first semester, try to take <a href="https://catalog.calvin.edu/">core courses</a> in a few areas that interest you. These courses will help you decide if a specific field is for you.</p></blockquote><h3>Still have questions?&nbsp;</h3><p>Please reach out, we have a team that wants to help you navigate this exciting transition in your life. <strong>Call:</strong> (800) 688-0122, <strong>Text:</strong> (616) 202-3256,<strong> Email:</strong> <a href="mailto:admissions@calvin.edu">admissions@calvin.edu</a>&nbsp;</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-publish-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-12-16T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">Mon, 12/16/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="/stories/six-tips-finishing-your-college-application" data-a2a-title="Six Tips For Finishing Your College Application"><a href="#" class="a2a_button_facebook"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Facebook</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_twitter"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Twitter</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_linkedin"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on LinkedIn</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_email"><span class="a2a_label">Share this on Email</span></a><a href="#" class="a2a_button_print"><span class="a2a_label">Print this</span></a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-provus-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/603" hreflang="en">admissions</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">News type</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">News and Stories</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-featured field--type-boolean field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Featured</div> <div class="field__item">Yes</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Feature image</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Image</div> <div class="field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/wide/public/2024-12/CalvinUniversityAdmissionsTips2024.jpg?itok=vwPX7Xb3" width="1090" height="545" alt="Ƶ students walking across campus." class="image-style-wide"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-story-type field--type-list-string field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Story Type</div> <div class="field__item">Student story</div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-person field--type-entity-reference field--label-above"> <div class="field__label">Person</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/people/matthew-kucinski" hreflang="en">Matthew Kucinski</a></div> </div> </div> Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:19:33 +0000 msk23@calvin.edu 36649 at