Writing
A reflection on my master’s program
In early March, I was privileged to talk with prospective students considering Messiah’s Graduate Program in Higher Education. I adapted my speech to share with you!
Two years ago, I found myself at a recruitment weekend, but I had absolutely no idea why I was pursuing a degree in higher ed. In fact, I barely knew what the field was. I just really wanted a certain graduate assistantship, and I felt like God was calling me to consider this path, so I obeyed.
Book Review: Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in The Cafeteria? And Other Conversations About Race - Beverly Daniel Tatum
Race is not an easy subject to broach. Early on in life, based on situational cues (e.g., parents speaking in hushed tones), children realize that it is best to avoid the subject altogether. Instead of learning how to navigate difficult conversations with respect and grace, these children grow up to be adults who are afraid of those who look different, which further perpetuates segregation and systemic racism. Over 60 years after the Civil Rights Movement, social justice advocates continue to ask how we can improve cross-racial relations to create a more equitable society. Enter the seminal work of Beverly Daniel Tatum, Ph.D.: Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? And Other Conversations About Race.
Scripture Memorization
How many of you share those painful associations with scripture memorization from your childhood? Our parents and Sunday school teachers were doing a very good thing for us, whether we believed it or not at the time.
orange ferrets and higher education
You might be wondering how orange ferrets relate to higher education.
Or, maybe you're like me, wondering if orange ferrets exist.
Honestly, I still have no clue, even after six years of pondering.
What’s Your Calling?
In The Art of Work, author Jeff Goins writes that the vast majority of people don’t know what their calling is. Those people who dream of being a professional ballerina from age 5 or being a doctor like their father are few and far between. Most of us need to do some heavy searching and discerning; we don’t generally “just know” our calling.
Fear No More
God has been calling me to a deeper level of intimacy and bolder expression of my trust in Him. I recently heard this quote: “Instead of waiting for fear to subside I have made it my friend.” WOW. The imposter syndrome is roaring inside me, so I turn daily to God, asking for His empowerment and provision. He constantly reminds me that I am exactly where I’m meant to be, doing what I’m meant to do. So…I did a thing.
From Neuroscience to Higher Education: A Personal Narrative
When it came time to select a college, I ultimately decided on Messiah College—not because of the courses, but because of the opportunities to take my learning outside of the classroom and truly be nurtured into a well-rounded adult, grounded in my faith, fully ready to function in society four years later. I felt accepted by Messiah’s community every time I set foot on campus. From my admissions counselor to the student tour guide to the dining services employees: everyone made me feel welcome. I recognized that this environment would enable me to process my thoughts and grow as an individual and an academic.
4 Things I Learned When “Downgrading” My Career
I am an associate at Hobby Lobby.
We spent $120K to cover four years of education in Neuroscience and Mathematics, and I left a prestigious job in research to become a custom framer at a craft store.
If you’re sitting here, scratching your head and wondering what would compel me to do such a thing, you’re not alone.