Guyen Bean, a freshman at Andrews University, is from Bermuda. His decision to come to Michigan was led by God’s guidance and call.
“God was talking to me, consistently and in different ways. He kept pointing me toward Andrews University,” Guyen reflects. God’s direction became increasingly clear as church elders offered him advice, and numerous obstacles gave way to miracles. Once at Andrews, Guyen decided to study theology and chemistry.
“I want to reach people who love science and theories but hate God,” Guyen says. “I want to let them know that God loves them in a way they can understand. I want to help people in a spiritual and tangible way by working at both the pulpit and the lab computer.”
While working toward that goal and starting college, Guyen has seen God’s guiding hand and felt His presence through every moment. “College is hard,” he admits. “It pushes you to either change and grow or deteriorate.”
Through challenges like new environments and difficult classes, Guyen is proud he has chosen to nurture his growth by prioritizing his faith. “When I face troubles, God reminds me to ask Him for help. I try to put God first by seeking His will over my life and surrendering to Him.”
Guyen enjoys the theology program—especially how it prioritizes teaching students “to know a warm, loving God.” His favorite courses, Greek I and Introduction to the Old Testament, have helped him to expand his biblical knowledge and better understand the meaning of God’s Word. “My classes have changed my perspectives. My overall experience here has been a training ground for how to conduct myself in new environments, like America.”
In addition to his academics, Guyen has also seen God’s love reflected through the University community. “The people I’m around—teachers, students, neighbors and strangers—all help me redirect my focus,” he shares. “They have helped to heal my worldview … gave me good advice, and taught me, through experiences, that good friendships are possible. They have shown me much love in such a small period of time.”
Guyen continues to prioritize his faith and put God first in schoolwork and friendships. In the future, he plans to plant churches, pursue analytical chemistry and become a pastor. For now, he encourages each person in his growing Andrews community with the promise that “God will be with you always.”