admissions

News type

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Staff story

Author(s)

Learn more
Schedule a visit

Related departments and units

Office of the President

Call to action

51�� welcomes strong incoming class for Fall 2026

msk23@calvin.edu — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 16:55:10 +0000

51�� welcomes strong incoming class for Fall 2026 msk23@calvin.edu Thu, 08/27/2026 - 12:55

51�� is welcoming another strong incoming class of students for the fall 2026 semester, with more than 1,000 new students expected to join the 51�� community.

The incoming first-year class is expected to surpass the university’s goal of 775. This marks the fourth consecutive year 51�� has welcomed more than 1,000 new students across all of its incoming student populations.

“This incoming class is further evidence that more students and families are looking for the distinctive value 51�� provides through rigorous academic and career preparation, deep character formation, and a Christ-centered community where faith shapes every aspect of life,” said 51�� President Greg Elzinga. “We are grateful for the students and families who have chosen 51��, and we look forward to seeing how God will use their gifts, experiences and aspirations to shape our community. We are also deeply thankful for the faculty, staff, coaches, alumni and others who have helped make 51�� a place where students can learn, grow and flourish.”

Meet the incoming class

The first-year class includes students from a wide range of backgrounds and communities. Nearly two-thirds are from Michigan, while others are coming to 51�� from across the United States and internationally. The class also includes a significant number of student-athletes and students who have a family connection to 51��.

51�� is also welcoming a strong group of transfer students this fall, with 87 students currently committed to enroll, exceeding the university’s goal of 80. Transfer students will participate in Fall Orientation and Welcome Week alongside first-year students.

The university also expects to welcome more than 80 new graduate students for the fall semester, with additional graduate enrollment anticipated as the university moves toward the second session of the semester.

Beyond traditional undergraduate and graduate enrollment, 51�� is welcoming students through a variety of additional pathways, including adult degree completion, dual enrollment, post-baccalaureate programs, re-admission and other programs serving learners throughout the university.

Moving onto campus

New students have already begun arriving on campus, including fall student-athletes and participants in 51��’s wilderness programs. International students are arriving from around the world, with the remainder of the incoming class arriving Aug. 27 for Fall Orientation and Welcome Week.

“Every new student brings a unique story, set of experiences and sense of calling to 51��,” Elzinga said. “We are excited to welcome them and to begin another year of learning and living together as a community.”

51��’s fall semester begins on August 31 following Fall Orientation and Welcome Week, when new students will have opportunities to connect with classmates, faculty and staff and become part of the 51�� community.

Check out the activity: /admitted/welcome-week-orientation

About 51��

Founded in 1876, 51�� is a top-ranked, liberal arts institution that equips its 3,700 students from 50 U.S. states, 62 countries, and six Canadian provinces to think deeply, to act justly, and to live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in the world. 51�� offers 100+ majors and programs, including a growing portfolio of graduate-level offerings. 51�� students engage in intensive internships, community-based service learning, and significant research that results in publishing and presenting alongside world-class faculty. The university’s 400-acre campus is in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Discover more at www.calvin.edu. 

Thursday, August 27, 2026 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Schedule A Visit
Start Your Application

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

John Zimmerman

Call to action

From Adversity to Opportunity: Why 51�� was the right choice for Ryan Reynolds

msk23@calvin.edu — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 18:12:59 +0000

From Adversity to Opportunity: Why 51�� was the right choice for Ryan Reynolds msk23@calvin.edu Tue, 01/06/2026 - 13:12

At the age of five Ryan Reynolds lost his birth family and entered into the foster care system in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Over the course of the next dozen or so years, he says “I lost literally everything: family, belongings, and confidence.”

An unstable home environment full of verbal, mental, and physical abuse, led to Reynolds running away, attempting suicide twice, and spending time in jail and in a mental health facility.

He was looking for a way out and saw a career in baseball as his only viable option. “So, I put my head down and pursued baseball,” said Reynolds.

Making a life-changing decision

But, in July of 2022, “I was forced to go on a mission trip to Nicaragua,” recalls Reynolds.

While he didn’t go willingly, the trip ended up being life changing “I gave my life to Jesus,” said Reynolds.

While he returned to the United States with a newfound hope, the forces opposing him didn’t lighten up. But though the hardships kept coming, he found a path to play baseball at a small private college in the heart of Kentucky.

Facing more adversity

Unfortunately that path closed quickly. Just a few months in, Reynolds tore his ACL.

As he considered other paths forward, he discovered Ohio Christian University and started to have conversations with coaches and players there. With no place to call home and no money to his name, one conversation in particular with the captain of the team piqued his interest.

“He told me about Camp Geneva, about its mission, and that it gives you free housing,” said Reynolds. “So, I reached out and got an interview and as soon as I was accepted, I moved to Michigan.”

Ryan Reynolds (front row second from left) served on the Camp Geneva summer staff in 2025.

Heading in the right direction

Little did Reynolds know that that move would open yet another door. When donors to Camp Geneva and 51�� heard about Reynolds’ story, they worked together to find a way to pay for his first year at 51��.

“I came to Michigan with nothing to my name,” said Reynolds. “I was fully on my own. I had no idea how to navigate life.”

Adjusting to the rigors of college took some time and getting mononucleosis halfway through the semester added another challenge, but Reynolds discovered something mostly foreign to him his entire life—a community committed to supporting him.

Discovering a sense of belonging

One of those supporters, English professor Jennifer Holberg, took it upon herself to become more of an informal advisor.

“She’s played a huge role in my overall success as a student as she was willing to meet me where I was and work with me through the hurdles that came along,” said Reynolds. “She poured into me, helped me set up the schedule I have now, and helped me find confidence in myself.”

Reynolds interacts with Owen Hayes, a friend and classmate in Professor Holberg's class.

Reynolds has also discovered true friendships, especially on the baseball team.

“The first day we had a meeting as a full team and Coach Schipper asked me to share my testimony. Since then, we’ve been practicing every day and it’s a family environment,” said Reynolds.

“Ryan came into our program carrying a very difficult past that could have pushed him away from trusting others, yet he chose to show up with humility, grit, and a willingness to grow. I'm grateful he's part of our team because of the authenticity he brings every day,” said Joel Schipper, head coach of the 51�� men's baseball team. “It's been meaningful to see our guys rally around him and form a genuine community of support, accountability, and belonging.”

Living into his calling

While Reynolds is starting to understand what a healthy family feels like, he also understands the importance of sharing his story.

“That’s what God’s calling me to as I have a very unique story,” said Reynolds. “It’s not my story. I’m a vessel for God. He brought me through so much. Everyone is caught up in the pressures of life, but our God is so much bigger than the problems we face.”

Reynolds says he’s committed to pursuing full-time ministry and baseball now has its proper place.

Reynolds is on 51��'s baseball team.

“Baseball was my little “g” god. Now, it’s my platform,” said Reynolds.

And he is grateful for the roles the communities of Camp Geneva and 51�� have played in his story.

“Being at Camp Geneva changed my life, and 51�� is building on it,” said Reynolds. “God opened the doors of 51�� for me in a very powerful way. I’ve found the true meaning of family through my teammates and coaches and even my professors and classmates. I’ve found my family and my sense of belonging here.”

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

Athletics

News type

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Related departments and units

English

First-gen student discovering purpose and community at 51��

msk23@calvin.edu — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:18:19 +0000

First-gen student discovering purpose and community at 51�� msk23@calvin.edu Tue, 11/11/2025 - 13:18

Judith Mukamurenzi ‘27 is a junior at 51��, majoring in finance and marketing and minoring in ministry leadership. As a first-generation college student, she’s aiming to be the first in her immediate family to earn a four-year college degree.

Now in her third year at 51��, Mukamurenzi reflects back on the barriers she initially faced when she was deciding on which college to attend, the support she’s received along the way, and how she’s not just pursuing a degree at 51��, but on a journey to discover her God-given purpose.

When you were considering colleges, what was the biggest barrier you faced?

The biggest barrier I faced was financial. My family couldn’t afford to send me to college, but I believed that if I did my part, God would make a way. I worked hard all through high school, giving my best and trusting God to handle the rest, which He did. I saw education as more than just my future, it was a way to create new possibilities for my family, and that’s what kept me going.

Why did you choose to come to 51��? How did 51�� help you overcome that barrier?

51�� checked every box I was praying for. I was looking for a school that would support me financially and help me grow spiritually. 51�� provided both. I received a generous financial aid package that made it possible for me to attend, and I found a Christ-centered community that has poured into me in ways I didn’t expect. 51�� didn’t just give me access to higher education; It’s also a place where I am growing in my faith, purpose, and calling.

What's something that's surprised you so far about your 51�� experience?

What’s surprised me most is how much you grow as a person beyond the classroom. 51��’s liberal arts approach challenges you to think deeply and see life from different perspectives. My professors and peers have encouraged me to ask hard questions, stay grounded in my faith, and see learning as a journey that shapes both the mind and the heart.

How have you been supported during your time at 51��?

I have been supported in so many ways. TRIO Student Support Services was a big part of my first-year experience. Even though I took dual enrollment courses in high school, being a full-time college student was completely new. TRIO guided me through that transition and helped me believe in myself when things felt unfamiliar. Their mentorship inspired me to become a TRIO ambassador so I could give back to other students who are just beginning their college journey.

How have you gotten involved and found community here?

Community is one of my favorite parts of 51��. I have had the chance to serve as the community outreach director for the African Student Association, which allowed me to celebrate culture and connect with others who share similar roots. I was also part of the ministry leadership cohort, where I grew in faith and learned what it means to serve with others who love God. My friends and I even started a prayer group where we encourage and uplift one another. And now, as a Nexus financial coach, I get to combine everything I am passionate about: faith, finance, and mentorship, by walking alongside students in their financial and spiritual growth.

Would you recommend 51�� to other first-generation students? Why?

Absolutely. 51�� has an amazing community for first-generation students that feels like family. Through programs like TRIO and 51�� First, I have met people who understand the unique challenges we face and who genuinely want to see us succeed. The support here is real. You are surrounded by people who believe in you, pray for you, and celebrate your wins. As a first-generation student, that means everything. 51�� is not just a place to earn a degree, it is a place to be transformed, to grow in faith, and to discover the purpose God placed within you.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

School of Business

News type

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Related departments and units

School of Business

Student finding place at 51�� and in Air National Guard

msk23@calvin.edu — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:09:03 +0000

Student finding place at 51�� and in Air National Guard msk23@calvin.edu Mon, 11/10/2025 - 15:09

When Jared Genthner ‘29 graduated from high school in 2024, he knew where he was going to college.

“As soon as I did the tour of campus it stood out to me that this is the place I wanted to go,” said Genthner.

But while Genthner knew he was heading to 51��, he also envisioned a career in the Air National Guard.

“I wanted to take opportunities into my own hands when they came my way and the Air National Guard was something that stood out to me, especially since my uncle was already trying to recruit us cousins for years,” said Genthner.

Doing both

Fortunately for Genthner, he didn’t have to choose between the two. He discovered a path to do both. Upon graduating from Jackson High School, Genthner spent the next year doing all of his training for the Air National Guard, which included spending six months in Mississippi.

Now, as a first-year student at 51��, he’s found his rhythm, which includes taking a full load of classes and then going to base in Battle Creek, Michigan one weekend a month and then somewhere nationally or internationally for two weeks each summer.

“Both 51�� and the Air National Guard have been helpful in making this possible for me,” said Genthner. “I’ve had a lot of support from the Registrar’s office and a lot of understanding from teachers and staff to allow me to have both on my plate at the same time.”

Discovering community

At 51��, Genthner, who is majoring in environmental studies with a focus in geography, is preparing to work somewhere in the realm of forestry and conservation science. While he is appreciative of how 51�� is preparing him for a future career, he’s most impressed with how quickly he’s found community.

“Something I’ve been so surprised by is how quickly I’ve found my own community, not just in one place, but in so many,” said Genthner. “As I’ve seen the year progress, communities have also progressed. In making connections, I’ve found that my friends know each other’s friends. It’s really cool to see how God works through all of us.”

In choosing a college, Genther said finding a place that would encourage him to grow in his faith was also important. It’s one of the reasons he applied to the Ministry Leadership Cohort.

“It’s been a great way to grow in my faith and also to have a community right from the start,” said Genthner. “We take classes together and we eat lunch together, and it’s a good time.”

And coming from a small town, Onondaga, whose population is no more than the size of 51��’s student body, Genthner especially appreciates the diversity of people and perspectives he’s encountering at 51��.

“It’s really rewarding to see how people from all sorts of places and different walks of life and with varying perspectives can connect,” said Genthner. “It’s allowed me to grow personally.”

Feeling well supported

While Genthner’s 51�� and Air National Guard journeys are just getting off the ground, he’s appreciative of how the 51�� community has supported him along the way.

“They’ve [51��] been really helpful. Even in the summer, I was getting emails once a week just checking in and I’ve been able to work with lots of people who are helping me and supporting me,” said Genthner. “I’d say 51�� is a very veteran friendly place."

Monday, November 10, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Geology, Geography, and Environment

Related departments and units

First-gen student finds support and belonging at 51��

msk23@calvin.edu — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:47:35 +0000

First-gen student finds support and belonging at 51�� msk23@calvin.edu Wed, 11/05/2025 - 10:47

Elaina El-Khoury ‘27 is studying operations and supply chain management & business analytics at 51��. El-Khoury, who hails from Lebanon, is a first-generation college student, meaning she’s aiming to be the first in her immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Now in her junior year, El-Khoury reflects back on the challenges she faced as a first-gen student, the support she’s received along the way, and the rewarding journey she’s been on over the past few years.

When you were considering college, what was the biggest barrier you faced?

When I was thinking about college, the hardest part was figuring everything out on my own and making sure it was financially possible. There wasn’t really a clear roadmap for me, so I had to take the time to learn about applications, scholarships, and what options were realistic. It was a lot to manage, but it helped me grow more independent and resourceful.

How did 51�� help you overcome that barrier? Why did you choose 51��?

Before I became a 51�� student, during my senior year of high school, I visited campus several times and immediately noticed the strong sense of community. Everyone I met was welcoming and genuine, which made 51�� feel like a place where I could truly belong. As a first-generation student, I didn’t always know what to expect from college, but 51�� had a very supportive and welcoming environment (admissions team, financial advisors, mentors) which made the transition feel less overwhelming. They helped me find the resources I needed, answered every question I had concerning finances and transition, which made me feel more prepared and confident to take the big next step.

I also would like to add faith. When I moved from Lebanon to the U.S., I still had a strong faith, but I found it harder to stay consistent with prayer and church. Coming to 51�� helped me reconnect and grow spiritually. Through chapel, Bible studies, and the people I met here, I felt encouraged to live out my faith more openly. Even though I come from a different denomination, I’ve always felt included and supported. Being part of this community has helped me grow closer to God and continually strengthen my faith throughout my journey at 51��.

What's something that's surprised you so far about your 51�� experience?

One of the things I really appreciate about 51�� is its diversity, not only among students but also in the way different majors and disciplines connect with one another. I find it amazing how everything here feels interconnected. We’re encouraged to learn beyond our own majors, which helps us become more aware, well-rounded, and thoughtful. I love that 51�� continues to grow in this way, and it’s exciting to be part of a community that values both academic connection and personal growth.

How have you been supported during your time at 51��?

I’ve been supported in so many ways here at 51��. In the beginning, even though I’ve always been a talkative person, it was hard for me to open up and ask for help, whether it was about navigating classes and assignments or dealing with personal and social challenges. Over time, I realized how strong the community around me is. Through TRIO, the first-gen program, and groups like CISD, I found people who understood what I was going through. Being surrounded by students who shared similar experiences helped me let my guard down and feel comfortable asking for help. It’s made a big difference to know I’m not alone, that there are people who truly listen, support, and guide you rather than just saying, “It’ll get better.”

How have you gotten involved and found community here?

It definitely wasn’t easy to find a community where I felt like I truly fit in. Navigating that part of college was tough, but I kept pushing myself to get involved in different student orgs, clubs, and leadership roles to see where I felt most at ease. For about two years, I was in and out of friend groups and organizations, and honestly, it was a challenging process. But by God’s grace and through a lot of prayer, I’ve finally found where I belong. I’m now surrounded by people who uplift me and make me feel genuinely comfortable. It’s been a journey, but through it all, I’ve learned what’s best for me and where I’m meant to be.

Would you recommend 51�� to other first-gen students? Why?

Definitely yes!!! I didn’t really know what “first-gen” meant before I came to 51��, but 51�� has shown me how meaningful it is to be one. There’s a strong sense of support and pride in being part of the first-gen community here. Through programs like TRIO and First-Gen Connect, I’ve met people who understand my experiences and genuinely want to see me succeed. 51�� celebrates that part of who we are and provides the resources, mentorship, and encouragement that help first-gen students not just adjust but truly thrive.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

School of Business

News type

Featured

Feature image

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Why I chose 51�� in 2025

msk23@calvin.edu — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:39:43 +0000

Why I chose 51�� in 2025 msk23@calvin.edu Fri, 08/29/2025 - 12:39

The fall semester at 51�� is officially underway. Students from dozens of high schools across west Michigan, more than 130 cities across the state, and dozens of countries spanning six continents are now on campus for the 2025-2026 academic year. The 51�� student body now represents 3,600 students from 48 U.S. states, 5 Canadian provinces, and more than 60 countries around the world.

As the incoming class of 1,000-plus students begins their time at 51�� this fall, we asked seven students from Michigan, the Midwest, and across the world, all majoring in different areas of study, why they chose 51�� and what they are most excited about as they begin their college journey.

How did 51�� come on your radar?

Bidengy Jean Louis (Haiti): To be honest, there was a competition between my brother and I of choosing a college. I always do research about 51��, and he would do research about another college, and we would sometimes argue about that, talk about whose college is better. I tell him my college is better because of the community and the Christian environment they have around them and how they get along with each other.

Sophia Nelson (Youngstown, Ohio): My mom went here, so I heard about it a bunch from her and I decided to take a look at it and go to the admitted students day and it was really cool and they were really intentional about getting to know me and make sure that I was comfortable with being here.

Olivia Klomp (Crete, Illinois): Through my high school counselor. He went here, so he was really pushing it.

Kyla Johnson (Byron Center, Michigan): My mom went here, my grandma went here, my great grandma went here, and my great, great grandma went here. So, I’m a fifth-generation woman at 51��, so I heard about it from family and specifically from my sister she was like you should totally go here.

Sam Deutschmann (Byron Center, Michigan): I first heard about 51�� from my mom, she went here for her masters, and she loved it. She loved the community. She loved getting to meet a whole bunch of new people.

What was the tipping point?

Philip Kirkpatrick (Hutchinson, Minnesota): I think the campus visit did a lot. I really liked the smaller atmosphere and not feeling like you’re getting lost, it’s near family, and I like the area.

Junseo Kweon (South Korea): The financial aid and the Christian environment.

Sophia: Based on all the schools I was looking at, 51�� had more of a community feel and it just really felt like if I needed something here, I wasn’t just a number, I was someone they care about and someone that they want to thrive.

Olivia: I chose 51�� because it has a five-year program where you graduate with your masters and also I just love the Christian community.

Kyla: I chose 51�� because I love the graphic design program and am really excited about that and my sister had gone here and she told me how great of a school it was, that she loved it and thought it was amazing. I also chose it because of the really great community.

Sam: It really came down to scholarships. That was the big thing. 51�� gave me more scholarships than any other school did.

What are you most excited about?

Olivia: I’m just excited to meet new people and take classes that actually interest me.

Sam: I’m most excited for meeting new people and getting to experience the medical programs and all the science programs here.

Junseo: I’m excited to meet some new professors, take new classes, and also for other activities outside of the campus.

Bidengy: I am always excited about everything, excited to get involved in the club soccer team, excited to make new friends, and get to know more of 51�� and the other students.

Sophia: I’m really excited to look more into my major, so taking all the political science classes. I think that’s what I’m most excited about, learning more about what I want to do.

Philip: I’m excited to spread my wings a bit, try some new things, be on my own.

Friday, August 29, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Featured

Yes

Feature image

Feature image caption

Left to right: Bidengy Jean Louis (international business) and Junseo Kweon (computer science) are first-year students at 51��.

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Related departments and units

International Admissions

Q&A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban

msk23@calvin.edu — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:00:38 +0000

Q&A with Entrada grad Kwesi Abban msk23@calvin.edu Thu, 07/31/2025 - 16:00

Kwesi Abban (KG) ’29 is from Germantown, Maryland. When he was choosing a college, he relied on the recommendation of his sister and one of her friends who both had positive experiences at 51��. He said the fact that the university was Christian-based and strong in computer science were key factors in his decision to enroll.

Incentivized by the possibility of a $4,000 renewable scholarship and the ability to better understand how rigorous college coursework would be, Abban signed up for a preview of college: the Entrada Scholars Program.

What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?

How as a Christian community, most people share similar values.

Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …

I feel more confident in myself and how I will do in college.

How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?

I would have felt very nervous. Honestly, I thought about this, I tried thinking about what it would have been like if I didn’t do this Entrada thing. I think I would have been very nervous about college, wondering how I am going to do this, where I would need to go if I needed help and all that.

What's your experience with professors been like?

My professor was wonderful. She was always ready to help and would even stay two hours after class. Yesterday, I needed my laptop for the final and I left it in the classroom, and she was still there. She was great.

How have you experienced community?

I like a quiet community and coming to 51�� this is the best place. This is where I fit in because it’s quiet and it’s peaceful. No one is going to judge you or criticize you for anything, they all care about you. When someone is feeling sad or something is going on, you are going to have someone who is going to approach you and talk to you.

Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Featured

Feature image

Feature image caption

In 2025, Kwesi Abban begins his studies in computer science at 51��.

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Related departments and units

Computer Science

Entrada Scholars Program

Q&A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez

msk23@calvin.edu — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:57:27 +0000

Q&A with Entrada grad Emma Rodriguez msk23@calvin.edu Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:57

Emma Rodriguez ’29 is from Bloomingdale, Illinois. While 51�� wasn’t initially on her college wish list, she said “through word of mouth” she was convinced she needed to give it a look. While she didn’t think she’d end up at 51��, she paid a visit and said she had a gut feeling that “this is it, this is home.”

Craving finding community early on, she enrolled in the Entrada Scholars Program and calls the monthlong college immersion experience a win-win. “I made friends, and I get a renewable scholarship.”

How has your view of college changed since attending Entrada?

I feel like everyone’s first inkling about college is from movies—it all looks so exciting and that’s what I was hoping it would be. My parents said it would be nothing like the movies, that it was going to be super hard, and I’d need to work a lot. Then, when I came here, I discovered that my parents were right, but the movies were also accurate. It can be both. You just have to manage your time well.

I can go to events, make new friends, while still studying and doing well in class. I learned when to say no to things and when it was worth it to say yes. It’s a balance.

What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?

I’m not as alone as I thought I was in my faith. I found it hard to find teens my age who believe the same thing and have the same core values and views in the world. At the end of my senior year of high school I was kind of losing hope. I wondered are there really other people who believe the same things I do?

I found that there are people here that are so full of this fire for God and have such wisdom and are really mature and there are people out there like me who I can relate to and talk to. I couldn’t see it because I was stuck in my own community, but now I’m here and there are people like me all over the place. I’ve heard so many different stories of students from different countries and states, so while it felt like we were alone, when you put us all in this place it becomes much easier to see the bigger picture. We didn’t know who each other was last month, but now we are such a tight-knit group. I now feel hope again for my generation.

Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …

Myself, and my ability to do hard things. And this covers a broad range of things, from asking for help from my peers to not being afraid to dive into something new.

How would you have felt had you not had this experience before college?

I don’t even want to think about it. I would have been so confused.

The program plus the RAs (resident assistants), who have a lot in common as they were in our position just a year or two prior, do a really good job of holding our hands, showing us how to prepare for the fall. The academic coaching is also a good refresher on how to take notes, how to do well in classes. This experience has been an easy win into college and now I’ll come back in a few weeks, with all of this fresh on my mind. It’s nice to have someone help you take that first step into college when you know nothing about it.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I think that they should make expand Entrada and open up more spots for people. I wish that every college student coming to 51�� had this kind of experience. Entrada is more than a class, it’s building a mindset, learning new skills, making all these friends—friendships that are only a few weeks old, but I feel will last a lifetime.

Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Featured

Feature image

Feature image caption

Beginning in 2025, Emma Rodriguez is excited to study fine arts and business at 51��.

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)

Related departments and units

Entrada Scholars Program

Q&A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu

msk23@calvin.edu — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:53:51 +0000

Q&A with Entrada grad Yohana Yigezu msk23@calvin.edu Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:53

Yohana Yigezu ’29 is from Cairo, Egypt. While she never visited campus before deciding on coming to 51��, she had plenty of positive feedback from those at her church, who she says, “are almost all alumni from 51��.”

Her first visit came in July 2025 during the Entrada Scholars Program. She said that one-month college immersion experience gave her time to “not only prepare for college life, but also to experience living in the U.S. for the first time.

How has your view of college changed since attending Entrada?

It’s changed because everyone tells you it’s a lot of work, a lot of time management –But when you experience it, it is different. So, in navigating that you see that ‘oh wow, I need to step up my game for college.’ I was scared to make new friends, take new courses, but I realized it’s not as scary as I thought it would be. In high school you hear people say that no one will help you in college and that you’re on your own, but in the Entrada program I had a lot more support than what I was expecting.

What’s your experience been like with professors?

Coming here and professors saying ‘you can call me by my first name’ or ‘here’s snacks for you to share while we study’ or them opening up office hours to spend time with you wasn’t something I was used to. I grew up in an educational environment with clear lines between teacher and student. But here, I’ve found there to be an element of friendship and care that I really like.

What is your greatest takeaway from this experience?

My greatest takeaway would be “do it scared” – I think there’s so many new things I had to do and learn that I was scared or nervous about, but those 30 seconds of fear before meeting a new person, that 20 minutes of learning a new thing you were scared to admit you didn’t know is not even comparable to what I ended up learning or friendships I ended up making. It was worth it. Putting myself out there, doing it scared, gave me a much greater reward.

Because of Entrada, I feel more confident in …

I feel more confident in coming to university and starting in the fall. I think that if I hadn’t done Entrada, had to start all of my classes all at once, to not know where everything is, and to experience living in the U.S. for the first time, that would have been much scarier for me.

Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 12:00

Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter Share this on LinkedIn Share this on Email Print this

Tags

News type

Featured

Feature image

Feature image caption

In 2025, Yohana Yigezu begins her studies in civil engineering at 51��.

Story Type

Student story

Author(s)