As graduation gets closer, seniors reflect on their time at Vanguard and discuss their post-graduate plans.
English major Kyle Durham
1. How did your experience when you first began attending Vanguard compare to your experience as you leave? What were you like when you entered and how have you grown since?
When I first came to Vanguard, I didn’t quite know what to think. I was definitely a little overconfident in my skills as a writer and knowledge of the subject. I quickly found out that this program was going to be much more challenging than I previously assumed. It ended up, thanks to the two best professors ever, Doody and Lee, becoming the best years of my life. Every semester I have grown exponentially as a writer and a student of literature.
2. Do you have advice you’d like to offer to current students?
I would tell students to try their best to have a relationship with their teachers. It is incredibly beneficial to have a mentor of their caliber. Vanguard is small but full of professors who love their jobs. It is incredible, the hearts they have for God and how much they care about each and every one of us. You can’t get that at UCs and Cal States.
3. What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to work for a while and see if any opportunities present themselves along the way. I used to think I had to have one set plan but now I feel like I am more comfortable with letting the chips fall where they may. I still plan to become a high school teacher and then eventually moving on to getting my doctorate in English, being a professor one day myself.
Business major Brandijo Kistler
1. How did your experience when you first began attending Vanguard compare to your experience as you leave? What were you like when you entered and how have you grown since?
When I first attended Vanguard, I was a little scared and unsure of what I was jumping into because I did not know one person and I was going to this school on my own. However, people at Vanguard were so gracious and loving and it was so easy to make new friends quickly because of this. I have grown so much spiritually and have learned so much about the Christian faith and I am forever grateful for that.
2. Do you have advice you’d like to offer to current students?
Get involved and really find out what Vanguard is all about. Enjoy each moment, because boy does the time fly.
3. What are your plans after graduation?
I am coming back to Vanguard to take classes to get two minors, and I hope to attend Grad school soon for my MBA.
Religion major Melanie Engelke
1. How did your experience when you first began attending Vanguard compare to your experience as you leave? What were you like when you entered and how have you grown since?
My time at Vanguard has helped me to grow a lot! I have learned so much, especially about my identity in Christ and his reconciliatory work in the world. Being given the tools to grow into my personhood in Christ is one of the greatest gifts that I have ever received and it has changed the way that I relate to my past and look forward to my future. I am so thankful to have had the chance to spend the last four years in this amazing environment that encourages this kind of growth and development.
2. Do you have advice you’d like to offer to current students?
Get to know your professors! The professors here at Vanguard are some of the most caring, open, and knowledgeable people that I have ever met. There are so many stories that I could tell about the ways that they have impacted and changed my life. I know that for a lot of people (including myself) it is difficult to work up the nerve to approach a professor, but it is so worth it! They really do care about students and want to see us succeed in more than just academics!
3. What are your plans after graduation?
I’m trying to be really open about whatever God might have for my future, but my plan is to go to grad school here at Vanguard and get my Masters in Theological Studies. My ultimate goal is to teach Old Testament Theology.
Psychology major Vanessa Lebron
How have these aspects of your world view changed since freshman year?
Politics – I have never been very interested in following political affairs. However, while at Vanguard I have been exposed to the political system and how it serves those caught in human trafficking and domestic violence. I have learned how the system works and can improve. My knowledge has greatly increased regarding this topic since I have been at Vanguard.
Spirituality – How I interact with my faith has changed dramatically from my high school days till now. I have learned a lot more about the history of my faith and have been given the opportunity to view my faith from a different angle. It has turned my experience with Christ from something purely emotional to an experience supported by knowledge and a deeper understanding of the Bible.
Career/Calling – Before arriving at Vanguard, I knew I wanted to study psychology. What was initially an interest became a passion, thanks to my wonderful professors. Whether or not I continue in this field, I will apply the principles I have learned in future experiences.
Society/Culture – I think a major way Vanguard has impacted my perspective of society has been how Vanguard encourages us to be a part of the community and positively impact it. This is clearly demonstrated through activities such as City Serve, where all of Vanguard comes together to meet the needs of our surrounding community. It not only allows us to help others, but we leave with a sense of pride knowing we have taken time to serve others.
Political Science major David Vazquez
How have these aspects of your world view changed since freshman year?
Politics – I have always been interested in politics. Coming to Vanguard, I knew I wanted to major in history and political science and my studies have challenged my political thinking. I would definitely say that I am more open to the other side, yet I better understand where I stand on the issues. Our political process is partisan to the point that we can’t work together on serious issues. We have become afraid of the word “compromise,” yet that is what our system of government is built upon. You can compromise without compromising your convictions.
Spirituality – At Vanguard, my faith has become my own. I have a deeper understanding of who Christ is and how I am supposed to remain in Him. I have experienced God in new ways during my time in college and believe the empowerment of the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. I have become more serious about the Word of God, prayer, and devotion.
Career/Calling – I used to struggle between where God was calling me: politics, pastor? I have always had a passion for politics and have always loved the Church. It was at Vanguard that I learned that my life is to be lived in a missional way, that no matter where I am I can spread the love of God and make Him known. Vanguard has helped me recognize and sharpen my strengths. I have been given opportunity that has made me more confident in my future career goals. I would like to go into law, politics, higher education, non-profit sector, or all of the above.
Society/Culture – I have learned to love God, love myself, and love my neighbor as myself. Being involved in things like the Homeless Ministry right here in Costa Mesa has given me perspective that even those right next to us are in need of hope. Also, I believe Christians should influence culture. We live in a time when there are so many agendas and Christians are being pushed to the side and cast as anti-intellectual or closed minded. We must not be afraid to join the conversation and to take part in all areas of influence – business, science, education, the arts, media, government, sports, law, etc.
Communication major Joe Henson
How have these aspects of your world view changed since freshman year?
Politics –Since freshman year my ideals and mind have changed. As for politics, I had joined the debate team so now I can see how both sides function. I do not really stand for just one side but rather what I feel would do the most good.
Spirituality – My spirituality at Vanguard has definitely grown. But I do not feel it was because of our Spiritual Formation department but more because of the wonderful professors on campus.The professors at Vanguard do a lot for the students.
Career/Calling – As for my career and calling, Vanguard has definitely shown me the path I wish to follow. As my spirituality grew so did my calling for teaching.
Society/Culture – As for my own society and culture, I realize that we as humans belong to several cultures and our society shapes and forms who we are.
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