Though Andrews University is typically known for its ethnic diversity on campus, we also exhibit our multifariousness through the various majors/minors students can choose to pursue. Fortunately, AU students have the option to select from over 100 different programs that cater to their needs and interests for their future career goals. It is intriguing to consider how each student’s current path will prepare them for their future profession, which includes the irregular major-switching, the many conversations with friends and family about future plans, or periodically asking oneself the hovering question “Is this really what I want to do?” All of these uncertainties are a part of the journey that will get us to our destination. Let’s hear from a few Andrews University students about their journey here so far, and what future plans they have in mind.
Josh Bourquez (senior, informatics)
I’m an informatics major with a graphic design minor. I chose these two because I’ve always been interested in web development and UX/UI design. Graphic design helps me really use my web and tech side, appealing to the consumer, and allows me to express my creativity. Informatics gives me the applied skills needed to get a website started, be able to work with others in a group project and be well-rounded in all programming languages. I plan to go back home to good ol’ Texas after I graduate and work hard on my career to be a self-employed, independent web contractor.
Nzeyimana Juliette (freshman, psychology)
I am currently majoring in psychology. Everyone may be studying the same thing but everyone has different reasons. I study psychology because in a world without the presence of someone to advise and direct it would be filled with troubled souls. It has always fascinated me to know why I do, say, or think the things I do but even more intriguing to understand the reasoning behind what others do, say or think. To me, psychology is like a puzzle. The more I study and patiently observe, the puzzle will come together, as every piece has a place and it’ll create a complete picture once careful research has been conducted.
Camilia Howell (junior, communications and psychology)
I initially decided to study Communications with the intention of pursuing journalism. After my first two years of college, I started to consider mental health counseling as a potential future career, which led to me declaring Psychology as a second major. Living in the midst of a global pandemic, I’ve seen how our circumstances have had negative effects on people’s mental health. I want to be a source of help for those who struggle in such a way. I’ve found that these two areas of study work well with each other, and I’m excited to see what doors open for me after graduation!
Nicoleta Cojan (freshman, English)
Oftentimes, when we think of moving to another country at a young age, having to get accustomed to the new culture, leaving your old friends behind to make new ones and learning a different language– it does not sound ideal. Growing up as an immigrant in the United States has its challenges, mainly the language barrier. Not understanding English well enough to communicate with friends and teachers and having to read the instructions of an assignment three times before I understood it often frustrated me, but all of that also came packaged as a blessing which is also where my love for language was born. I chose pre-law due to my love for people and passion for caring for others, along with using my voice to stand up for those who can’t use their own. After completing my time here at Andrews University, my journey continues to law school to further my studies in Immigration Law. Overcoming the challenges has not been easy, but my passion is stronger than my setbacks.
Zyon Wiley (senior, pre-physical therapy)
I am a 3rd-year pre-physical therapy student with a minor in exercise science. I chose this major because of the fascination and connection I have with the human body. The desire to help people and be a blessing in others’ lives, coupled with my interest in human function and movement, has caused me to feel that physical therapy was the right profession for me. When I graduate I plan to work at an outpatient clinic or work in neurological or geriatric physical therapy.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.