Studying God’s word
Ashlyn is majoring in both biblical studies and business management with the hope of someday running a Christian-based business or nonprofit. Newly married to a fellow Northwestern student, she and her husband are leading a discipleship group with other married couples at NWC to support each other during their first years of marriage. She’s grateful for the lifelong friends she’s made at NWC, professors she can turn to for advice, a stronger relationship with Jesus, and preparation for her future career.
A whole education
Northwestern is a wonderful college that emphasizes all areas of your life, from your mental and emotional health to your spiritual and physical health. Another reason I chose Northwestern is because of the fun activities it offers for students to get involved in each week. They keep you active outside the classroom, even if it is in a smaller town.
Biblical interpretation
Although I don’t have an aspiration to go on to seminary or graduate school, I decided to major in biblical and theological studies because of my passion for God’s word. As Christians, we aren’t called to use the Bible as a weapon, but rather, as an authoritative moral compass for our lives. I know that a lot of cultural and historical context is misunderstood today unless studied further, and I want to know what the Bible was saying back then so we can interpret it rightly today.
Immersive learning
I participated in Northwestern’s Honors Program study abroad trip the summer before my senior year. It was the greatest experience I’ve ever had! Before going to Greece for three weeks, we enrolled in a 16-week course studying ancient and modern Greece. Throughout the semester, we were each assigned to present on a specific site. Once we got to Greece, our “final exam” was sharing with the other students what we learned. Standing where Paul stood— but also the greats like Plato, Aristotle and Socrates—was surreal. Being able to see where democracy started and the Acropolis, Olympia and Corinth was absolutely incredible!
Growing by leading
There are tons of different leadership opportunities at Northwestern, from being a coordinator for a group project in class to starting a campus club. I was a resident assistant for a year, which was an amazing way to learn about myself—how I handle conflict and ways of peacekeeping. I also learned through RA training what an amazing opportunity it is for ministry. I learned so much about the girls on my wing. Being able to hear their testimonies and stories of faith was such a blessing.
