Tag Archives: Christian college

Life at PUC

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.

Meet PUC’s New Lead Pastor, Nate Furness

Meet PUC’s new Lead Pastor, Nate Furness. Born in Seattle, WA. (“GO Seahawks”) and raised in Orange County, CA., Pastor Nate began his pastoral ministry at Westminster Good Samaritan SDA Church, then became the lead pastor at the Costa Mesa SDA Church. After that, he became the lead pastor at the Napa Community SDA Church, where he was the lead pastor. Having a passion for Adventist education made him decide to accept this position at PUC, and the college could not be more excited to see Pastor Nate lead the students and church. 

What did you want to be when you were younger? 

I wanted to be a pastor or a fireman. I am a pastor’s kid, and as I was growing up, I watched my father. I knew I wanted to be like him. In college, I didn’t choose a religion degree. I knew what it meant to be a pastor, and I wasn’t ready to fulfill that obligation. I graduated with an Education Degree in Health, Wellness, and Physical Education. 

When did you first feel the call to be a pastor?

Early on, but I didn’t think I was ready. I had some growing to do. After I married Jennie in 2005, I knew it was time to become a pastor. 

What made you decide to accept this position? 

I have a passion for Adventist Education. I want to be part of preparing young adults to serve Jesus in their context. We want to prepare nurses, psychologists, filmmakers, teachers, pastors, and others to share the love of Jesus with everyone they encounter.

What are your spiritual focus or goals for the campus? 

To prepare young people to be missionaries in their professional context, to disciple and mentor young people, and to demonstrate that life is joyful and that we are better in community. 

What methods do you use to stay connected with young people and be a mentor to them throughout their spiritual lives? 

I like to connect with them in the classroom, during intramurals, and invite students into our home. I plan to be present in the student center and available to chat. For those wishing to go deeper, I would schedule meetings where we can listen and encourage.  

What makes pastoring a campus church special to you?

Community. I love that there is a variety of people on campus. I look forward to working with Admin and the various departments to lean into our spiritual development. 

How can we, your PUC family, serve and support you and your family as you minister for us? 

I like homemade cookies and ice cream…lol. Encouragement. We all need to be encouraged, even the pastors.

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

The people. I love that we live in a community where we run into people we know all the time. I love the campus. I love that PUC has hundreds, if not thousands, of acres to explore on bike and foot.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

Cycling, Snowboarding, wakeboarding, and being with my family.