Category Archives: Uncategorized

PUC’s 2022-23 Staff Member of the Year: Chris Vance

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This past school year was the first time the human resources department at Pacific Union College recognized a staff member of the year. They planned to start this award in 2020 but got off track when COVID hit. In May, Chris Vance, information technology support services operations manager, was named Staff Member of the Year. He was honored during an award ceremony for his tremendous work overseeing and handling the campus’ information technology systems. One of Vance’s strengths is his amazing communication skills– all while juggling responsibilities with different departments and offices. There is no doubt this award is well-deserved.

What brought you to PUC? Why did you decide to work here?  

I crept in the door as a temp when the old analog phone system took a detour to doom. Before that, I performed audio design. However, most of the local sound jobs churned out promotional material. I became miffed that all the work I performed was for content designed to interrupt the shows people wished to view. Computer technology has always tugged my interest; the temp position morphed into a full-time client support job. I decided to convert audio work into a hobby and make a career in IT at that point.

Describe your typical work day. 

I brew up a loose schedule in my head when I amble toward work each day. That plan rarely survives the first half hour. Variety exudes from this type of IT work. A certain allure exists to avoiding daily routine. I am always delving into new projects and support requests requiring that I accomplish something altogether new. The helpdesk requests tend to form avalanches, too. This leads to a jolly match of ping pong where I am the ball. Fortunately, I am dense enough to shrug off the back-and-forth.

What is your favorite thing about your job? 

Evicting gremlins and smiting bugs brings catharsis. That said, I most enjoy concocting workarounds to bizarre problems with the team down here in IT.

You were named this year’s staff member of the year. What does this recognition mean to you? 

It means I roused from my root cellar often enough to be noticed by the denizens of the overworld. Sassy quips aside, it feels great to have my efforts seen and recognized. I am far from alone in those accomplishments, as we have all had a taxing year. 

What is your favorite thing about PUC? 

The faculty, staff, students, and community are bodacious. IT work engenders and intertwines with stressful situations. This leads to wailing, gnashing of teeth, and rending of hair in many businesses. However, in all my years working here, no one has barged down the stairs to my office, spoiling for a fight. 

What are your hobbies? 

I enjoy reading, writing, music, video games, baking, and canning.

What is something you do or want to do that might surprise people? 

I am in a band where I play saxophone and cello. 

Where is your favorite place to eat in the Napa Valley? 

The Azteca Market holds the position of prominence, as it is the traditional film major hangout. I spent many a pre-production meeting on the metal patio furniture adorning that place.

What NOT To Do Before Dropping Off Your Student at PUC

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We have shared in the past what to do before coming to Pacific Union College–but have not shared what not to do. With college starting in the fall, you might be making sure your student accomplishes a list of things before move-in day, such as submitting financial aid, choosing their meal plan, and securing their classes and dorm room. Since mistakes are inevitable, here’s a list of things NOT to do before dropping off your student at PUC. 

Don’t Include Yourself In Everything 

Parents, we understand you want to be a part of your student’s college journey, but let them handle some decisions themselves. Such as their class schedules, dorm room assignments, and clubs they want to join. Make some suggestions if they ask, but with college being a new beginning for them, let them make this experience their own. 

Don’t Takeover Their Room 

Speaking of things to let your student decide on their own, let them take charge of decorating their dorm room. The dorm will be their home away from home, so respect their space in making it their own. 

Don’t Procrastinate on Shopping & Packing 

Buying dorm necessities is a process. From kitchenware and bedding to school supplies, there are a lot of items to buy, and some are easy to forget. Take care of school shopping in advance, and once you have those items, start packing them up. You will save time during the weeks leading to move-in day. 

Don’t Forget To Plan Holiday or Special Occasion Travels 

Your student going to college is proof of how fast time goes, so make holiday travel arrangements ahead of time if necessary. Especially if your student is flying for the holidays, book those tickets in advance to save money. If there is a special occasion your student cannot miss, plan those as well so they can have that on their schedule and make any arrangements needed with their professors and supervisors. 

Don’t Forget To Uplift Them 

Your student might be feeling nervous or anxious about leaving for college. Don’t forget to uplift and share positivity with them during these times. 

Check in here and there on how their college checklist is going, but remember to take in every moment you can with your student before they leave for college. No matter what happens, everything will work out. 

Five Summer Activities for College-Bound Students 

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For those of you who recently graduated high school, congratulations from all of us at PUC! With your last summer home, we’ve made a list of fun activities and some ideas for those of you who want to get a headstart into your major. 

Get an Internship or Job

For those of you who need an internship with your major, consider getting a summer internship. You’ll get an early start to see how people in your field work, know what skills you need to strengthen, and can include your internship in your resume. 

Many soon-to-be college students also like to take up a summer job before school starts to build up their resumes and make money to save for college. 

Volunteer 

Like a job, volunteer hours will look good on your resume, especially if you want to work for a charity or nonprofit. If you don’t know where to volunteer, research local charities. Think about the types of work you care about, then see if any local places are looking for volunteers. 

Make a Local Bucket List

For those attending college far from home, spend the summer as a tourist in your city. There might be things you haven’t had the chance to do or try yet, so make a local bucket list before you leave for college. 

Revisit the Things You Love 

Revisit the things you love by returning to your hobbies and spending time with your friends and family. Go on a road trip with friends or your favorite hang-out spots. Before your schedule gets busy with school, this is your chance to have fun. 

Start Planning for Move-In Day

For those moving into a dorm, start checking off items on your dorm list, such as bedding, appliances, kitchenware, or school supplies. If you are flying, look out for ticket prices and buy them in advance. 

While there’s much to do before school starts, there’s also plenty of time to enjoy your summer. 

Finish The School Year Strong

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With summer around the corner, it can be hard to stay motivated before finals when the sun it out and all you want to do is ditch the books and have fun. We’ve put together a couple of reminders for finals week. You have come so far this school year, so finish the school year strong! 

Pay Attention in Class 

Paying attention in class is going to make studying much easier. Your professors will tell you what to expect on your final exam and give other details that will be useful to you. Take notes on what you need to remember and what time your exam will be. Sometimes exam times change, so make sure you’re paying attention in class so you aren’t late or miss your test. 

Make A Study Plan

We always share this tip because making a study plan is a key to staying on top of your exams, staying organized, and being successful during finals week. Know which exams will be the most challenging for you and which ones you feel more confident taking. This will give you a layout of what to invest more of your time studying. If you study better in a group, find a time, and place where everyone can meet and stay focused. 

Go Over Past Assignments, Exams, & Quizzes  

After you narrowed down which of your classes need the most attention, gather up your past assignments and exams to see which chapters or subjects you need to improve in. Go over past quizzes and look over your notes to give 

Don’t Skip Meals

It’s hard to focus on an empty stomach, so make sure to keep food in your room or bag. Don’t skip meals, stay hydrated, and make sure to grab enough food every time you’re at the dining commons.  

Get Vitamin D 

Get up from your desk and spend some time under the sun. It’ll help your mental health, boost your energy, and improve your overall health.  

Take Care of Yourself 

Speaking of your health, please make sure you take care of yourself as you prepare for finals and during finals week. You have to make sure you’re taking care of yourself by taking breaks, eating right, and getting enough sleep. We know it can be hard with everyth

Study, pray, and keep calm- you got this!

Jericho Road the Musical Review By Jonathen Blue, Music Director at Napa Christian  

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Jericho Road, written by Lindsay Morton, depicts the realities that many couples face in the modern age when faith, commitment, and responsibility converge in a stalemate. It proposes thought-provoking questions within our own relationships and does not condescend to tell the answers. The show presents a different ending each night with distinctive options of what the outcome could be for the main characters. This allows for each audience to gather something unique from their theatergoing experience. It also smartly encourages the audience to witness the event more than once to draw different or more thorough meanings from the story.

This musical presses a magnifying glass up against the happenings in the world of faith-oriented dating and, more specifically, the Seventh-Day Adventist subculture. With reference to Sabbath practices, investigation in scripture, and church community, Jericho Road makes a very clear stance on the dedication to Christian standards. The message resonates clearly. It is evident by the book of this show that Morton is solidifying herself as a force in the world of Christian theater.

Earnest. That is the word that perfectly describes the energy that these actors invoke. Their work is far from over, but having been a working actor for over twenty years, I can attest that the work is always far from over. The heart and passion in this performance is true. These young leads have been given the gift of working through material that so accurately expresses the human condition from a point of view with which they have or will have intimate encounters. This artistic bearing challenges its participants to identify the relationships onstage that are echoed in our personal lives.

The lyrics of each song in conjunction with the melodic choices are both heart-wrenching and infectious and the score, under the direction of John Gilley, sets the tone for the impending rollercoaster of emotions and perspective. The music, beautifully sung by the cast, wafts you in and out each scene, and even as a referential piece, it truly stands on its own two feet. It marches down the Jericho Road and stands on the rubble, the pieces, the people, that life often leaves behind.”

Senior Spotlight: BevenGreg Delos Reyes 

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Before becoming a PUC student, BevenGreg Delos Reyes’s first impression was roaming around Fall Festival as a high school student and seeing the different cultural and activity clubs. Being drawn to campus life, particularly the diverse range of activities offered, he saw PUC as his future college. Now in his last quarter at PUC, finishing up his major in health communications/pre-pharmacy, BevenGreg says his favorite place in the world is “Pacific Union College in Angwin, California, of course!”

What is something you want to accomplish before graduating? 

I really want to eat at an expensive restaurant in St. Helena! I’ve lived on a tight budget for too long that I think it’s time to drop a cool $100 on a single meal for the fun of it.

Where is your go-to restaurant in the Napa Valley, and what do you recommend to order? 

Hop Hing’s Kitchen on Trancas Street. They will pack your to-go box to the brim with food! The servings are huge, so you’ll get a great bang for your buck. I always order the combo special, which comes with two entrees and two sides. It’s enough for two meals, so I usually take the leftovers back to my dorm with me.

What made you decide to attend PUC? 

I was primarily drawn to the campus life at PUC, particularly the diverse range of activities on offer. Since my first impression was roaming around Fall Festival, I was able to see all the different cultural and activity clubs. Clubs, SA, and the dorms all host events that keep PUC alive!

What is your favorite class?  

Interpersonal Communication with Dr. Tammy McGuire! This class taught me essential practical skills that I use in my everyday conversations. You learn how to converse, listen, and communicate with people of different backgrounds.

What will you miss the most about PUC?  

I am going to miss the dorm life the most at PUC. Living just a couple of strides away from my friends is what made living in a dorm fun. If I want to play video games or get a group to grab dinner with, there are always people in the dorm wanting to hang out. It’s even nicer if you’re taking the same classes with your neighbors. You won’t feel lonely during the late-night study sessions!

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers family? 

The Pioneers family has so many friendly and helpful people! The professors, students, and campus staff are all really approachable and nice. You can always find help when you need it or strike up a conversation with anyone!

SA Feature: Alexander Chuquimia, President 

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Meet this year’s student association president, Alexander (Alex) Chuquimia. If you told him his freshman year that he would be SA president his senior year he would not have believed you. Previously being a part of the student senate, Alex was encouraged to run for SA but never saw himself doing that. After taking a leap of faith last school year, he became executive VP and moved to a bigger role for his last hurrah at PUC. Now, as Alex finishes his pre-medicine degree, he loves being PUC’s SA president. 

Tell us about being SA President.

I love being in this role! By being the SA President, I have had the privilege of building connections with a diverse group of driven individuals, many of whom I might not have crossed paths with otherwise. Through my tenure as the SA President, I have practiced the soft skills of leadership- including effective communication and time management. I know these invaluable qualities will serve to enrich my personal and professional life for years to come.

What motivated you to run for President?

If you told me I was going to be SA President when I was a freshman, I would not have believed you. The first person that encouraged me to run for SA was my friend Aileen when I was in the Student Senate. She advised me to run for the office of the SA Executive VP, a role I originally could not see myself in. But I took a leap of faith in that opportunity and ultimately enjoyed that role. Last year, I was again encouraged by others to run for the office of SA President. This time, I was more confident in what I was doing.

Leaders are not always sure of themselves at first. If you have any desire to lead, you should act on it. If SA does not seem like your jam, join a club! Or join Intramurals and be part of a sports team! All these roles will teach you crucial skills that will prepare you for the future.

What to you is the most important role or duty as President?

My most important role as President is being there for the other SA officers. In my role this year, I have been an advisor and teacher, giving pointers and voicing my thoughts on things. Typically, the SA President has the most experience in a new SA team; therefore, they tend to be in the best position to provide other members of the SA with help. However, the President is also tasked with various committees and special projects that occur behind the scenes.

What is your leadership philosophy?

My leadership philosophy in SA has been to prioritize the students’ viewpoint over anything else. Essentially, students are my focus. The Preamble of the SA Constitution and Bylaws states that SA exists to “represent the needs of the student body.” In other words, your SA officers are here for you if you need anything at all!

What do you enjoy the most about being a part of SA?

What I most enjoy about being in SA is my team. Though the official roles stay relatively consistent from year to year, the dynamic of the SA team changes. I often bounce ideas off Natalia Gomez, our PR/Marketing VP, and she gives the best feedback. JR Rogers, our sponsor and advisor, can take any idea I have for the campus and formulate it into a plan. He has been a huge help to us with basically everything. Emily Smith, our Executive VP and future doctor, manages a 17+ person Senate, encouraging them to fulfill our SA mission in representing student needs. Paola Velazquez, our Financial VP, keeps us on budget and is super timely. Keren Castro, our Photographer, is present at SA events snapping photos and spreading her contagious laughter. Eden Salazar, our Social VP, is receptive to our ideas on fun events for students and is a great communicator. Ashley Castro-Rodriguez, our Religious VP, is always on top of things, managing our weekly Vespers programs and the Campus Ministries social media page. Fabiola Ixcot and Marguerite McHenry, our Co-Videographers, bring humor and creativity to our meetings through their comedic timing and the fun films they produce. Adwoa Appiah-Boateng, our secretary with a great sense of humor, provides a valuable voice and freshman perspective in our meetings. I feel privileged to be a part of this year’s story, with such a dynamic group of individuals. I am grateful to my team for everything they have done this year and everything they have helped me to do, as well as those things we have yet to do!

Do you have a favorite SA event? 

My favorite SA event has to be the Spring Banquet! It is basically our trademark event and an event most people will remember after college. Students dress up fancily and gather to celebrate the year’s memories. There is always so much life around the Spring, too, as the campus warms up and the flowers bloom. The Poor Man’s Banquet is my other favorite event which is hosted in the Winter quarter. Last year we went to Six Flags, which was a lot of fun!

How can students have their voices and concerns heard by the student leaders on campus?

If a student has an idea or concern, they can always get in touch with me or with any SA officer! Oftentimes, a specific student concern is addressed by one senator. That senator will write up a Senate bill that will be voted on by student senators. If the vote passes, the Administration will review it and determine whether or not to approve it. Many bills end up affecting daily campus life: the frozen yogurt machine in the Grind is one example!

Can you share any events that will be happening this quarter?

We have our yearly SA banquet coming up on Sunday, May 21 at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena! We are currently selling tickets for students. Follow us @puc.sa on Instagram for timely updates and an opportunity to win free tickets!  

What are your favorite things about PUC?

What I love most about PUC is the people. In general, the students and staff around campus are friendly, and all of my professors are there to provide help when needed. The one-on-one time you get with professors is something you would not get at larger institutions. Another one of my favorite things about PUC is the surrounding flora! In past years, I often hiked the Back 40 with friends to Inspiration Point and took in the view after a good workout. I also love the religious aspect of PUC, with its lively community church and its focus on one’s relationship with God. Throughout my time here, I have had many opportunities to be part of praise teams and worship programs—even a worship trip to Texas!—which were all blessings and provided me with good memories.

Life at PUC

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The moment you arrive on campus, events are happening and being planned at the same time. We understand that starting college, or even the thought of going to college, can be nerve-racking. That’s why our campus leaders, from our student association to residence assistants, make sure you feel at home and enjoy your college experience. Here is just a bit of what life is like at PUC. 

Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle 

There are plenty of ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle at PUC: First, there’s our gymnasium that houses our fitness center, weight room, outdoor pool, and climbing wall. Outside the gym, you’ll find the track, tennis courts, and soccer, baseball, and football fields. Second, PUC owns over 30 miles of trails where you can go biking, running, walking, or hiking daily. There are other spots near campus where you can embark on the mountain range or the sandy beaches. Lastly, our chefs serve healthy, delicious meals. They use organic ingredients and make sure there is something for every student to eat. If you have any food allergies or dietary needs, they will tend to your needs and make something you’ll like. 

Live in Northern California 

One of the best things about life at PUC is living in Napa Valley. Our beautiful campus gives you a peaceful environment; and is near wonderful destinations like St. Helena, Yountville, and Napa. The Napa Valley has countless restaurants for you to indulge in, cafes to study at, and selections of indoor and outdoor places for you to relish. Since we neighbor the Bay Area- you’ll also be able to explore different cities, beaches, forests, and mountains. You’ll never be bored living in Northern California! 

Worship & Serve 

We worship in many ways here at PUC. Students lead weekly dorm worships, group Bible studies, vespers, and church services. Our Campus Ministries team organizes service outreaches where you can help communities around the Napa Valley and Bay Area. Students also get the opportunity to serve short or long-term in other countries every year. Our faculty and staff make it a priority to enrich your spiritual life. If you are interested in leading or joining in praise, worship, outreaches, and spiritual life on campus, you can do all of that here. 

Be A Member of A Club

PUC has over 40 clubs for you to choose from and join. The clubs range from cultures, interests, and departments; and have activities and events throughout the school year on and off-campus. Some clubs go on weekend outings, like to Albion, for students to get a change of scenery and spend time with their friends.  

Go To SA Events 

Our Student Association Team works hard to give every student something to enjoy. From hosting nights of vespers, food trucks, movies, karaoke, and comedy; to events of games, fests, carnivals, and off-campus activities to going bowling, roller skating, and eating at Napa’s top-rated restaurants for yearly banquets.  

Participate in Intramurals 

Participate in intramurals if you like playing sports. There are 12 intramural sports, such as basketball, football, and soccer, for you to join throughout the school year. Intramurals will be a great way to meet people, exercise, and take a break from schoolwork. 

Work On Campus 

If you are thinking about getting a part-time job in college, PUC has work opportunities for you. Many students are teacher assistants, tutors, dorm employees and work for our food services at the dining commons and student center (a.k.a The Grind). Some students also work at the library, gym, and different offices on-campus. These are just some of the various job opportunities you can apply for that will offer flexible hours, build up skills, and let you have extra money in your pocket.

Connect & Network 

Our smaller classes allow you to get to know your teachers, which makes it easier for you to meet with them and receive the one-on-one help and assistance you’ll need. This will make your time at PUC even better- and your professors can help you find jobs; internships; and connect you to people in your desired fields. Our alums work at the top hospitals in the country to the biggest entertainment companies. Living in the Napa Valley will also give you job opportunities- where you can make even more connections. Whether you have a job on or off-campus, employers will be intrigued by seeing you’ve worked in the Napa Valley, which can help you stand out in your interviews. 

Receive Assistance & Support

The transition into college can be overwhelming, which is why PUC’s Teaching & Learning Center has resources for students to receive advising and assistance. If you need extra help with a class or facing illness, injuries, or learning disabilities, we will provide any accommodation you need. Our counseling center also gives free sessions to students to schedule meetings with our licensed professional counselors. Whatever assistance you need, we have your back and will support you every step of the way. 

Have A Home Away From Home

PUC will quickly become your home away from home from the friends you’ll make, your deans, advisors, and professors. You’ll be surrounded by caring, helpful, and welcoming people who will make sure you settle in smoothly and have a great, successful year. 

We would love to have you at PUC! Visit our website for additional information. If you have any questions, call (800) 862-7080, option 2, or email admissions@puc.edu. Our admissions counselors will assist you with anything you need.

A High School Senior’s Checklist Before College 

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If you or your teenager is a senior heading off to college soon, we know how extra busy the last year of high school can get. That’s why we created a checklist before starting college.

Take the ACT/SAT 

If you haven’t taken the ACT or SAT yet, make sure to check with your school when the exam dates are. Once you receive your scores, send them to the college or universities you are applying to. 

List Potential Colleges 

If you haven’t committed to a college yet, make a list of potential colleges you are interested in attending. It’s okay if you haven’t chosen a school yet, it’s a big decision and takes time to make. 

Research Programs 

Research the programs from the colleges interested in or are committed to. Check the courses they offer, who the professors are, and even check their department’s social account if they have one. 

Visit Colleges 

If you can visit the schools of your interest. Even schools you’ve seen in the past, you might have a different perspective now as a prospective student. Look up when their hosting college fairs, weekly or weekend visits, and contact the admissions counselor, current students, or alumni with questions you have. 

Sign-up on our website to get your PUC experience at College Days from February 5-7, 2023. 

Have A Career in Mind 

Think about what career path you want to take. You don’t need to know the right one right now but have an idea. Brainstorm different occupations you think you would be good at and enjoy doing every day. 

Learn & Organize Financial Aid 

As you learn about your financial aid options, such as FAFSA, grants, and scholarships, take it one step at a time. Talk to your financial advisor to see what financial plans are available for you and ask them every question you have so you can be on the same page and understand your financial plan. 

PUC’s financial advisors understand how overwhelming financial planning can get, which is why they are committed to helping you and your family make higher education possible for you. Learn more about financial aid at PUC on our website. 

Apply For Scholarships

There are millions, if not billions, of scholarships online ranging from interests, and majors, to creative writing topics for you to earn free money for college. Free sites such as Fast Web and Niche have lists of scholarships anyone can apply for. 

Every student at PUC receives one or more forms of financial aid. Check out our scholarships to learn more. 

Update Your Resume 

Make or update your resume even if you have little to no job experience. More than half of college students get a job while attending school to help pay for tuition, earn money, and gain skills. Employers know college students don’t have much work experience, so it’s okay if you don’t have a lot to show. That’s why you’re getting a job to build up your resume and get work experience. 

Continue Your Athletic Career at PUC

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The PUC athletics department is always looking for new athletes to join our Pioneers men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, soccer, and volleyball teams. The coaching staff takes pride in representing PUC by creating a talented, driven team made up of athletes who are passionate about their sport, have good character, and are committed to their education. 

Being in a Christian environment, we make sure our faith plays a part in who we are and what we do on and off the court. Our coaches and athletes serve in the community by giving back and helping others. Through giving and prayer, we share our faith with those we meet. As well as our competitors, we assure good sportsmanship, play fair, and pray together after our home games. 

PUC supports student-athletes and wants to help them continue their dreams. We offer scholarships specifically for athletics, along with other financial aids. Our financial counselors are committed to assisting you and your family in making an Adventist college experience possible. 

Visit our website to learn more about the Pioneers. To speak to one of our financial counselors, you can email them at admissions@puc.edu or call them at (800) 862-7080, option 2. Don’t hesitate to look into our teams or contact our coaches. We’d love to have you continue your athletic career at PUC!