A Consistently Safe Space
Can you major in English literature and minor in biology and biomedical sciences? Yes, says Sofia Bouma – and, in her book, it’s a winning combination.
She started her college career with a major in biology and plans to pursue medical school. By the beginning of her junior year, she realized how much she loved English and was disappointed that she hadn’t chosen to pursue it.
“When I came to understand that biology and English don’t have to be mutually exclusive, I changed my major to English literature and kept biology as two minors,” she says. “I love learning about humanity through language and writing, and I love learning about God and the natural world that surrounds all of us through science.”
Her post-graduation goal is to find a vocation that combines the two areas of interest, whether that’s medical-technical writing or working as a liaison in a health care setting. Graduate school is still something she hopes to pursue as well, whether in a medical field or through a focus on the humanities.
Sofia is also involved in Dordt’s theatre program, having acted in several productions.
“Theatre is unique because it enables you to embody the mind and life of another person and tell their story to others,” she says. “It has allowed me to actively work on communication, empathy, and teamwork. I’ve still never lost the passion of telling a story that I care about through theatre.”
She didn’t choose to major in theatre, but she was able to get a theatre scholarship as well as a music scholarship. Being at Dordt, she says, has helped her to pursue many interests.
“Because of these scholarships, I’ve been able to participate actively in both theatre and music for all four years,” she says. “Dordt truly does have a community that makes it very accessible to branch out and try new things.”
She’s also grateful for her professors. “I’ve really appreciated the personal relationships I’ve gotten to have with professors,” she says. “I have always felt like they have my best academic interest in mind and are willing to work with me when I need it.”
Sofia also has found Dordt’s campus to be a “consistently safe space,” she says.
“I don’t feel scared walking from the library to my apartment at night, and the amount of times I’ve left my laptop on a table somewhere and have come back to find it exactly where it was is astronomical (not that I recommend that, of course),” she adds.
Overall, she says, Dordt has provided an overwhelming system of support that has made her feel safe and loved during her four years here.
“Having friends that have gone elsewhere to college, I know that this is something truly unique to campus,” she says.
