The Social Work program at Bethel helped me combine my passions for learning about society and culture at a global level, and for helping individuals by coming alongside them in purposeful ways. It is so meaningful to be a partner in people's stories and lives.

While abroad, God broke my heart for the injustices happening in the lives of women. The support and mentoring I received from the department taught me to speak and act strongly against injustice, offering healing hope to the hurting.

The faculty encouraged and challenged me to not settle for good enough. They fostered strong personal character alongside becoming a strong social worker. Their approach to persevere through challenges impacted my work ethic in all levels of social work.

My faith grew immensely during my time at Bethel, in part from being surrounded by so many wonderful friends and mentors who encouraged me to dig deeper. I have been challenged to ask more difficult questions while reconciling my faith with a world filled with so much injustice. Entering into dialogue with others about the messiness in life has really led me to grow closer to God.