Here at PUC, we talk a lot about being a part of the Pioneers family but what does that really mean? It’s not just dressing in gold and green and cheering for the Pioneers on game days. Being a part of the Pioneers family means knowing there’s always someone out there who has your back. It means knowing there’s always someone to offer a kind word, assist with a project, or pray for you when you’re struggling. The best part? The moment you step foot on campus, even as a visitor, you’re one of us! 

Jayana Graham had no idea she would instantly join the Pioneers family when she arrived on campus for College Days last year but Kryslyn Maldonado and Danielle Gurning did! As freshmen, Kryslyn and Danielle were no strangers to the senior-year pressure of needing to choose a college. When they decided to welcome a College Days visitor to stay in their room they also made the decision to be open about their own PUC experiences and answer any questions their guest might have. “Hosting for college days is an amazing experience!” says Danielle. “You kind of see yourself in these prospective students and you get to watch as they take in their new surroundings and start to envision themself at PUC.”

On top of making sure she felt comfortable in a new environment, they spoke with Jayana about what studying at PUC was really like and chatted about what being part of the campus body meant to them. This really helped Jayana get a sense of what life as a Pioneer would be like for her. The kindness and care they showed really impacted Jayana, giving her an inside look at how PUC students, staff, and faculty treat each other. 

Jayana is now in the middle of her second quarter at PUC! She says coming to College Days and meeting Kryslyn and Daniella was the biggest reason she chose to enroll. “When I first arrived on campus, I was a little unsure of things. But when I met Dani and Krys I felt so welcomed. Their vibes were amazing and it made me want to stay, they honestly made me want to call this school my home. So far I’m loving PUC! It was also really great to already have two friends on campus.”

What is so wonderful about this story is, it’s not even a little surprising! Our students here at PUC are filled with the Spirit. You see it in the way they smile, laugh, and lift each other up. Each and every day we are so proud to know they are part of our family. 

Are you interested in becoming a Pioneer (even for a day)? PUC hosts College Days multiple times a year. We also encourage group and individual visits. For more information or to schedule a visit head over to the PUC website!

Editor’s Note: Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, we have canceled all in-person campus visits for the foreseeable future. While we wish we were meeting you face to face, the safety of our students, both current and prospective (you!), are far more important. Please join us for a virtual PUC visit experience on our website. 

We are taking appointments for regular, in-person, campus visits after May 1.