Number Cruncher
While Nathan’s prowess at crunching opposing players on the football field has earned the offensive lineman All-American honors, his skill with numbers and other classroom work has brought him NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition. The team captain is also active in intramurals and has participated in Spring Service Projects in Denver and Kentucky.
It all adds up
I chose Northwestern because of the opportunities it provides to excel both academically and athletically. Also, I knew this is a place where I could grow in my faith and learn within a distinctively Reformed worldview. The combination of a tradition of excellence on the football field, an actuarial science program that could offer the training needed to succeed, and an environment in which Christ is central in all aspects of life fit the vision I have for my life during and after college.
Career direction
During my senior year in high school, I had the opportunity to take Calculus I & II at Northwestern. My Calc professor, Wayne Westenberg, recognized I had the skill set for actuarial science and recommended I consider majoring in it. He has a son who works as an actuary and was able to provide sound advice and a realistic explanation of what the career is like.
Divine order
Studying math offers a unique opportunity to see the intricacy and order with which the world was created. As I’ve continued to learn, I’ve been amazed at the precision and logic that are consistently displayed.
Relationships figure
I really appreciate the atmosphere created by the math department’s small class sizes and relationships with the professors. You know the people in your classes, and learning is a joint venture. The department is large enough to have the resources and technology to help facilitate learning, but small enough to support close relationships with both professors and peers. We learn from a perspective that acknowledges the Word of God is what continues to sustain the realities we observe and study.
Mathematical mentors
The professors are extremely knowledgeable, but they also possess the ability to convey that knowledge to students. They are truly wonderful people, and it is a privilege to learn from them. They combine passion for mathematics with a passion for teaching students and enabling them to succeed. I also appreciate the way the professors are willing to share their faith and life experiences. They aren’t afraid to invest in their students and share their faith and wisdom with us.
Sum total
At Northwestern I’ve gained lifelong friends. People have cared about me and invested in me in ways I cannot even begin to express my thankfulness for. I came to Northwestern because of the opportunities it offered, but in reflecting on my time here, it’s been the people who have made my education and college experience spectacular.
