Nurturing the Heart

Anna grew up around Dordt, as her parents work on campus and her older siblings have attended Dordt. She was excited to finally become a Dordt student herself and meet new people. Anna ended up switching her major two times before finally settling on theology.

“That first semester of college was difficult,” she says. “You are adjusting in so many areas of life and are also expected to know what you want to do with the rest of your life at age 18. With the help of family members and professors, I was able to discover more of who I was and what God had in store for me.”

During her time at Dordt, Anna learned that who you are becoming is more important than what you do with your life. She struggled with perfectionism and comparison, often prioritizing music, sports, and grades over following Christ. Although she enjoyed playing on the volleyball team, singing in Chorale and Concert Choir, working on Campus Ministries and the Worship Arts Program, and serving as a student ambassador for the Admissions Office, Anna realized that God cares so much more about our hearts than our accomplishments.

“Dordt gave me confidence where I needed it and humility where I needed that too,” she explains. “Dordt gave me opportunities to succeed and moments where I failed. College is such an influential time in anyone's life and I am so grateful I was able to grow at a place like Dordt. You will have a full and rich college experience at Dordt. It is through these vast experiences and opportunities that you will meet so many fantastic people and discover more about yourself.”

After graduating, Anna headed to the Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan on the Trustee Scholarship. She is pursuing a Master of Divinity degree, hoping to work in church or college campus ministry full time. Anna says that her experience at Dordt has helped her transition to the next phase of life and succeed though college and beyond.

“While I was a student, staff and faculty were so supportive and contributed greatly to cultivating who I was. I was presented with many opportunities to grow—papers and presentations that were challenging, yet rewarding; leadership opportunities that were intimidating but influential; and internships/jobs that required a lot of me, yet helped make me who I am today. As I transition to the next phase, I am grateful for my professors and the Career Development Center who helped me think about doing more after I graduate—do more school at seminary. Without their mentorship, guidance, and advice, I would not be where I am today.”