What is the most influential book you have read besides the Bible? Why?
The most influential book that I have read besides the Bible is Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman. It took me by surprise. I wouldn’t call it a page-turner but it changed my whole perspective on the way our society receives news. We are fed it daily and in an entertaining fashion but do we really know anything about the problem other than the quippy headline and the 5 min breakdown?
What is your favorite or funniest moment at Geneva?
While it is not one favorite moment, I’ve enjoyed every single second I’ve spent in the J room. It is stressful sometimes but I just like to think that we grew closer together as a staff during those times and it just made the goofy times even more memorable. I guess you could say tears of frustration and laughter were both cried in that crazy room.
What will you miss most when you leave Geneva?
When I leave Geneva, I will miss all the opportunities Geneva has given me and not just the things I could have put on my resume. Geneva provided me an environment that encouraged and allowed me to ask my…unique questions without feeling ashamed or embarrassed.
Who has influenced you most while at Geneva? How?
There’s not one teacher that didn’t say something that has impacted my life but I have to say Mrs. Ryden has a special place in my heart. I could write pages on pages about how amazing she is but in a nutshell she is the most encouraging person I have the honor of knowing. I know for a fact I would not have the same major in mind or passion for art if she hadn’t taught me to embrace and pursue what I love.
What does being a Geneva student mean to you?
Being a Geneva student is the process of learning how to humbly look at different world views, still love those people, appreciate even more how good our God is and retain that knowledge so that when the time comes you can defend the Christian worldview, not out of spite but out of His love.
How would you encourage a Geneva kindergartner to persevere in school?
To encourage a Geneva kindergartner, I would say step back every once in a while and appreciate the unique environment you’ve been placed in. I regret getting so caught up in the details and monotony of the day –to- day routine. As cliché as it sounds, enjoy today because we aren’t guaranteed tomorrow.
What about Geneva do you hope never changes?
I hope Geneva never loses its heart. As this chapter of my life closes, I can look back to my time here and see that a big part of my understanding of love has come from Geneva. Whether it is by the examples of the wonderful staff and faculty or the pleasure of growing up with my classmates, Geneva did well in showing me what it looks like when the body of Christ truly loves each other.