Tag Archives: college life

Q&A with Aimee Wyrick-Brownworth: Dean of the School of Sciences, Associate Professor Biology Department

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Aimee Wyrick-Brownworth has been working at Pacific Union College for 19 years. She is an associate professor of biology and was made the Dean of the School of Sciences in April. The dean’s job description has many facets, and though academics is the primary responsibility, she will take on enrollment, student life, and advancement initiatives. 

PUC will be a three-school model this coming school: Nursing & Health Sciences; Arts, Humanities, & Professions; and Sciences. Aimee will be one of three deans to help lead the college and will protect the School of Sciences faculty and guarantee they are at their best for the students. Her vision is to increase awareness of and accessibility to PUC academically excellent and Christ-centered education. 

Tell us about being a dean. 

These are the early days, so I am meeting with faculty and leaders of each department and others across campus. I am lucky to have colleagues committed to working as a team, and we are working together to identify priorities and action steps. The dean’s job description is multifaceted, and though academics is the primary responsibility, I will take on enrollment, student life, and advancement initiatives. I look forward to ongoing collaboration with the School of Sciences team to complete necessary and aspirational tasks that are currently difficult to implement or complete. 

I support, encourage, and protect the School of Sciences faculty and ensure they are happy, healthy, and at their best for our students. I work with the other deans and the VPAA to minimize distractions – ensure systems are consistent, inefficiencies are minimized, and processes are streamlined. As a result, faculty can focus on their students and classes. I advocate for departments in the School of Sciences and will (loudly) share firsthand knowledge of the great things going on here. I will help to recruit top-notch students that are a good fit for PUC and the School of Sciences. I plan to connect more (and more often) with the community and constituency that lies beyond our immediate campus.

What’s your vision for your school?

My vision is to increase awareness of and accessibility to our academically excellent and Christ-centered education. Our graduates think critically, are well-prepared for their profession, and show kindness. We want to expand the number of students that we train so that they, in turn, can increasingly serve others and the planet. I want to ensure that the School of Sciences faculty and staff find satisfaction in their work, feel supported, and are given the space and time to access their creativity and pursue passion projects. I want us to illustrate to our students, constituency, and others that the personal and financial investment at PUC is worth it and, even, that the education gained is priceless.

How can PUC help you accomplish your department goals?

PUC, as an institution, should support initiatives that enhance campus morale. The administration must clearly communicate with the campus about challenges and opportunities. At every opportunity, faculty and staff should collaborate to create and pursue campus initiatives and to problem-solve. PUC should ensure that student voices are heard and that all students feel safe and respected. 
The greater PUC (constituency and alumni) can support us by sharing the good news and great things that are going on at PUC. Our constituency can build us up by refusing to engage in negative speculation or spreading misinformation about our campus and future. The School of Sciences also needs your tangible support – send students our way and donate to student scholarships or other worthy causes on our campus.

What is your favorite part about working in academics?

I can interact with others (colleagues, students, church community) to encourage open discussion and inclusion. Though different views will persist, I hope that we can avoid emphasizing who is right or wrong and instead reflect God’s love and be Christ-like. I enjoy serving the diverse students who are in my classes. Doing this well requires me to juggle a multitude of duties, but doing this relies effectively on my personal enthusiasm and currency in these course areas. I gain strength from my students and my colleagues. The encounters and relationships with these people keep me coming back for more. 

What is one thing you want people to know about PUC?

The faces and names may be different, but PUC is and offers what we always have- an excellent Christ-centered education within a supportive environment. Unfortunately, many don’t understand why this is an advantage and/or how this translates in a world so focused on the immediate and tangible. I know that Adventist education is different and is, in most cases, superior to other public or private schools. I am excited to be at PUC, where I see from day-to-day the difference my colleagues and I make in the lives of these students. We are invested in their academic success, but that’s not all – we are interested in them as people and want them to have personal success as well.

What do you love most about living in the Napa Valley?

California, the Bay Area, and particularly the Napa Valley location can’t be beaten. We live amid an internationally recognized biodiversity hotspot. As a biologist, you can’t ask for a more diverse and interesting part of the world to study and study in. I enjoy PUC’s extensive acres of wildlands and can even watch bald eagles soar overhead and see pileated woodpeckers in my backyard! PUC is truly “Where Nature and Revelation Unite in Education”.

Ways to Cope with Anxiety in School

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Many students share the struggle of having anxiety in school. With a lot of things going on at school, anxiety can build up. Some have figured out what helps them cope with their anxiety, while others don’t know where to start. Here are ten ways to cope with anxiety. 

Have A Routine

Having a routine keeps you on track with what you need to do. Your routine shouldn’t just consist of what time to wake up, do homework, or when to eat, but also when to rest and do things you enjoy. 

Take A Break

Taking breaks is essential to coping with your anxiety. There is so much going on around us that we need to take time to step away from the noise to catch our breath. Put your books, notes, and laptop aside for a bit. Treat yourself to a snack break, watch your favorite show, nap, or go for a walk to clear your mind. Always make sure to take breaks. 

Breathe

It can be easy to forget to breathe when your anxiety builds up. When your anxiety gets to you, close your eyes and take deep, slow breaths. By focusing on your breathing, you’ll ease back into yourself. 

Eat Well, Feel Well

Make sure you’re eating healthy food every day. Having a healthy diet helps shift our mood and can calm our reactions when we’re hit with anxiety.  Try to avoid junk food and anything else that makes you feel sluggish. When you eat well, you feel well. 

Go Offline

You’re already spending a lot of time looking at a screen, so give your eyes a break. Disconnect from social media and go offline. 

Spend Time Outside

Spending time outside can help you feel more present and improve your well-being. Step away from the books once in a while and go outside to breathe fresh air and get your body moving. 

Journal 

Many people find journaling therapeutic and helpful in handling their anxiety. Writing down what you’re feeling and what’s happening in your life can release stress and anxiety. 

Get Creative 

Get on the creative side of handling your anxiety by drawing, painting, coloring, sketching, or creating something. Having your favorite playlist or calming music in the background also helps relax your mind. 

Talk To Someone You Trust 

Talk to someone you trust about your anxiety. Whether that be a family member, friend, teacher, pastor, or school counselor. You are not alone and there is always someone you can talk to. 

Spend Time With God 

Last, but certainly not the least, is to spend time with God. Talk to God and tell him what’s giving you anxiety. Read his words and take his promises to heart. Through him, you will find peace, strength, and rest. 

Remember that you are not alone. Many students experience anxiety in school and at PUC, we take that seriously. Our Counseling Center is available to all students for free, so don’t hesitate to make an appointment. You can call the office at (707) 965-7080 or email counseling@puc.edu. 

It’s Okay To Feel Homesick

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Even though college is an exciting time to embrace your independence and take on new adventures, being homesick is very common. No matter how far or close you are to home, there will be times you’ll feel homesick, so we’ve put together tips on how to cope with missing home.

Bring Pieces of Home With You 

One way to get more comfortable in your dorm room is bringing pieces of home with you. Bring your favorite pillow, blanket, or mug. Develop photos with your family and friends to keep around your room or in your planner. Things you’re able to pack that remind you of home, take it with you. 

Make Your Room Homey

Your dorm room will be your room away from home, so make it as homey as possible for yourself. Bring your personality into life from the little things like decor, to the big things like your bedding, towels, and 

Hangout With School Friends 

Plan outings with your friends- and take advantage of our beautiful campus and town, or have a movie or game night and cook food together. There are many things you and your friends can do on and off-campus.   

Keep Yourself Busy

Keep yourself busy by getting more involved with school. Join clubs, intramurals, music or ministry groups, or attend campus activities, events, or volunteer opportunities- Schedule time to do things you enjoy and when to have downtown. College will give you a structured schedule, so create a balance that will benefit you. 

Go Outside

It can be tempting to stay in your room, cozied up in bed watching your favorite shows, but don’t be cooped inside all the time! Don’t pressure yourself to socialize if you’re not in the mood but go outside for a walk, take a drive around the Napa Valley, and have a day for yourself. 

Treat Yourself 

Speaking of going outside, go out and treat yourself! There are things from home we just can’t get anywhere else, but you can try to find something that’s close. College will be like your second home, so find places that you enjoy and bring you happiness. 

Keep In Touch With Home 

Whenever you miss home, call or message your family or friends. It might make you miss home more, but being able to talk and see them virtually can make your homesickness more manageable. Home is always a phone call away. 

Make The Most of Time At Home

Always make the most of your time at home. Eat your favorite home-cooked meals, go to your favorite places, and spend time with your friends and family. Whatever you love doing at home, do it, because there is no place like home.  

Remember, it’s okay to feel homesick! Everyone at PUC knows what it feels like, so talk about it with your friends, advisor, counselor, and even your professors because we are all here to care and support one another. 

Sorting Out Priorities in College

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The older you get, the more responsibilities you have. In college, responsibilities come at you from every direction. From school life to your personal life, countless things need your attention. Here are five tips to help you figure out how to sort out your priorities. 

Ask Yourself What Your Goals Are 

Think about what you need to accomplish and what direction in life you want to take. What kind of degree do you want? What steps are you taking to learning more about your career choice? Do you want to get involved in school or within the community? You don’t need to know all the answers right now, but at least have a goal you want to reach. 

Identify Your Priorities 

After knowing what your goals are, it’ll help you see what your priorities are. Obviously, school is one of them. Outside of that, you might have priorities from extracurricular activities. A job or your personal could also be things that need your attention. 

Know What’s Not So Important 

There’s going to be times where your friends want to hangout or people asking you for a favor, but you might be too busy already. When your schedule gets too packed and you’re feeling stressed, you have to let go of the things that aren’t a top priority. Knowing what’s not so important will allow you to put your time and effort into the actually important things.

Be Flexible 

We can control what we do, but we can’t control what life throws at us. When the unexpected happens, learn how to be flexible. Workaround the issue and focus on what you can control, rather than what you cannot control. Reorganize your priorities and see what you can do. 

Find A Balance

With everything that you need to do, find a balance on how to finish it all. This goes from eating, studying, and completing assignments, to making sure you take a break. Set goal times for when you want to finish each priority and to also make time for yourself. 

There aren’t enough hours to do everything, which is why sorting out your priorities is very important. No matter how many priorities you have, remember to make yourself a priority. 

Ways To Manage Your Classes 

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The start of the school year can be a challenge. Especially being back to in-person learning, the struggle is real to get back into a routine. You’ll have to wake up much earlier to get to class and your energy may not be the same as it once was staying on top of schoolwork. As you adjust to this coming school year, here are six ways to manage your classes. 

Keep Your Syllabi

Your syllabi are a huge help in managing your classes. That is your cheat sheet to know what chapters to read, when assignments are due, when to expect a quiz, and prepare for an exam. Your syllabi will also have your teachers’ contact information, descriptions of readings and assignments, and other important things you need to know. Even if your syllabi are online, still keep your printed syllabi in your binder or folder. 

Stay Organized 

Stay organized by using a planner, calendar, or task app. Write down when your classes are, assignments are due, exams dates, meeting times, and anything else that’s a priority. At the start of each week or the night before, write down what you have to accomplish, and throughout the week cross them off. It’ll feel satisfying knowing you finished it. Whatever helps you remember things and stay organized, continue to do that. 

Establish A Study Strategy 

Find what study strategy is most effective for you. If you haven’t established a study strategy yet, consider experimenting with making study sheets, color coding lecture notes, or reading important chapters. For some students, handwriting notes, formulas, or diagrams help them remember important information. Everyone studies differently, so find what works for you. 

Get Help From Your Teachers 

If you start to get confused or need extra assistance in a class, get help from your teacher. You won’t be able to manage your classes if you have unanswered questions, so don’t be shy to reach out to them. They are there to help you and want you to succeed. 

Take Breaks 

You can’t manage your classes if you don’t take breaks. When you’re constantly studying without taking breaks, your brain will start to fry up, and you’ll get burnt out. Remember, to take breaks and write it down on your to-do list or planner- if you need to. You’ll feel refreshed and more focused after taking breaks. 

Keep God Close 

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of school and life but never stray away from God. Stay close to God because he will give you the motivation, perseverance, and strength you’ll need. When you start feeling stressed and overwhelmed, spend time with him. Read a devotional or your favorite verses to remind yourself of God’s love and promises. With God on your side, you can get through anything, and that includes managing your classes. 

Your Backpack Essentials 

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As a student, you are always on the go. From going to classes, meetings, after school activities- some days you have to bring everything with you because you won’t have time to go back home or to your dorm room. To save you time and help you get through a school day, here are backpack essentials to keep in mind.

School Supplies 

Of course, you can’t forget school supplies such as your laptop, notebook, pens, books, etc. If you tend to forget certain things in your bag, have your bag packed and ready the night before. 

Keys 

Before you run out the door, don’t forget your keys. We seem to forget or misplace our keys often, so make sure you have them in your backpack or pocket before leaving. 

Wallet

Just like keys, your wallet can easily be misplaced or forgotten. Never leave without your wallet, especially if you commute to school or keep your school ID there. 

Water Bottle

Keep yourself hydrated! It’s always good to have water with you in class, walking around campus, after meals, and a workout. There are water stations throughout PUC for you to refill your reusable bottle. If you forgot to bring water, don’t worry because the dining commons has you covered. 

Hand Sanitizer 

When you don’t have the chance to wash your hands, you’ll be glad you have hand sanitizer in your bag. Get some disinfecting hand wipes too if you want. Stay safe and clean.

Lotion

With washing your hands a lot and putting sanitizer on, your hands can get very dry. It’s nice to have a small bottle of lotion with you, so your hands stay moisturized and don’t peel or crack.

Electronics

We use our phones quite a lot, so it’s nice to have a phone charger or external battery with you. Especially if you forget to charge your phone the night before, your external battery will come in handy.

Headphones are one of the things most students never leave their room without. Listening to music or a podcast while walking to class helps ease students, keeps them in the zone, and can help calm their nerves before an exam. 

Mini First-Aid Kid

You never know when you’ll need a band aid or Tylenol. If you have allergies or tend to get headaches easily, keep some medicine in your bag.

Gum or Mint

It’s nice to keep your breath fresh, so keep gum or mint in your bag. There will be days where you’ll have back-to-back classes or won’t be in your room till the end of the day, so having gum or mint on you will help keep your breath minty fresh.

Snacks

It’s not a bad idea to keep snacks in your bag in case you get hungry during class or need a pick-me-up. If you didn’t have a big breakfast or a filling lunch, that snack can help you get through the day until your next meal. 

Chapstick 

Chapstick may be something you never thought is essential, but it is. Some people can’t stand their lips dry and flakey, especially during winter, so having chapstick is useful. 

Hair Ties or Clips

If your hair tends to get in your face or it’s just a hot day, have some hair ties or clips in your bag. 

Everyone’s essentials are different, but these are some popular items we’ve seen students keep in their bags and backpacks. Hopefully, you find some of these things essential for you. 

Six Things Worth Investing In College 

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Shopping for college can be fun but can get overwhelming. For those of you preparing for college, there are a few things you should really invest your money into that will be beneficial throughout your college career. 

A Laptop or Tablet

Having a laptop or tablet with you at school is a must because it’s useful for your education. They obviously don’t come cheap, but some stores offer student discounts or deals, so make sure you ask about them when you’re finding the best laptop or tablet. 

A Fridge 

Before buying a fridge, check with your roommate if they’re bringing one and are okay with sharing. Although it would be nice to have two refrigerators, you want to use as much room space as for your other things. Just like a laptop and tablet, you want a fridge that will last throughout college. 

Durable Backpack or Bag

A durable backpack or bag will make a difference between going to and from classes- from carrying your books and supplies to handling any weather- buying a long-lasting backpack will help you save money from needing a new one later.

Bedding

It’s a must to make your bed as comfy as possible as you move away from home and are in a new environment. It’ll help you feel more at home and soothe you to sleep, which you very much need. (If you already have bedding at home you can use for your dorm room, great!)

Sneakers 

Buy a pair of comfortable sneakers that can handle any season and last the entire school year since you will be walking all over campus. Shoes don’t come cheap, and having a pair of sneakers that fit these categories and is versatile will save you money.

Yourself 

Most importantly, never stop investing in yourself. Keep growing, learning, and evolving into the person you want to become. 

Q&A with PUC’s Director of Enrollment, Pauline Cidro 

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Coming from Manila, Philippines, is PUC’s Director of Enrollment, Pauline Cidro. Pauline started working at PUC in 2020 as a part-time enrollment counselor and enjoyed it so much that she continued as a full-time. One of the perks of her job is getting to travel around the country for work- but the best part is interacting with students and their families—sharing with them what PUC has to offer and providing them assistance from the beginning until they officially become part of the PUC family.

How does PUC stand out from other colleges and universities?  

We are located in the very beautiful town of Angwin in Napa Valley, CA. Our campus is surrounded by great spots for outdoor activities and tourist attractions, and we have nice weather up here in Angwin with very low air pollution, so you definitely have clean air to breathe! Lastly, and most definitely, our students and faculty are able to build personal relationships that make it easy for the students to live away from home but still feel at home with the community they are part of here at PUC.

What’s the average amount of financial aid students receive? 

Last year, PUC awarded over $30 million in financial aid with the average award of about $23,000 per student.   

What health and academic support services are available for students?  

PUC offers a free health clinic, counseling, disability, and tutoring services to our students. These resources are available to all PUC students to make sure they are physically and mentally healthy and striving academically.

Why should high school students consider attending PUC?  

We have small class sizes with an average of 12:1 student-faculty ratio. I find this beneficial to the majority of students because I believe it helps improve their learning. We also have a one-on-one advising system which many students find very helpful as their advisors would walk them through each step in achieving their academic goals.

How do you support your students during their enrollment process?  

As their main person during the enrollment process, I walk my students through the steps they need to complete and connect them with the vital people they will be interfacing with when they start attending PUC: financial aid advisor and academic advisor.

What advice do you have for students applying to PUC? 

My advice is to understand there are many resources and help available to them, especially during the enrollment process. Their enrollment counselor (like myself) is their number-one resource when finding answers to their questions regarding anything. Our enrollment counselors always look forward to talking with the students and having authentic conversations with them to understand what they really need so we can continually support them while they go through the decision-making process. 

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. 

Meet PUC Chaplain, Arturo Lopez

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Pastor Arturo Lopez felt God calling him to serve after being baptized at the South San Francisco Latin-American SDA Church in 2009. He received his BA in theology from PUC and with nearly 13 years in ministry, Pastor Lopez is deeply grateful to God for orchestrating a plan for him to serve as a pastor. 

When and where did you begin your pastoral ministry?

I started full-time ministry at the Central California Conference of SDA in 2014. My first assignment was to serve as the associate/youth pastor for the Fresno Hispanic SDA Church under the leadership of Dr. Antonio Huerta. 

What made you decide to accept this position at PUC?

When I was presented with the opportunity to serve as the PUC chaplain, I reflected on my own experience as a student at PUC. My first months at PUC were tough. However, amidst some difficulties, my chaplain recognized my struggles and extended a personal interest in  my life. He prayed with me, offered encouragement, and became a valuable mentor during my PUC journey. Through his guidance, I learned the significance of a relational approach to ministry. I am eager to minister to students embarking on new career paths or experiencing significant life changes. This is why I gladly accepted the opportunity to come to PUC. 

Where did you previously work, and for how long?

Over the past nine years, my journey of service has unfolded within the Central California Conference of SDA. I began as an associate/youth pastor in Fresno and San Jose. Later, I transitioned into the role of district pastor, serving communities in Bakersfield, Taft, Salinas, and Seaside. Most recently, I held the position of pastor at the Monterey Bay Academy Church while also serving as the school chaplain. Now, I embark on a new chapter as I join the vibrant community of PUC. 

What are your spiritual focuses or goals for the college?

As the chaplain, I aim to implement three crucial spiritual goals. First, I seek to inspire students to prioritize love and unity within the PUC community. Building personal connections requires effort with such a vast and diverse campus, but we can all contribute to fostering an environment of genuine care for one another. Second, I aspire to collaborate with the school and church in creating opportunities for students to participate in purposeful discipleship programs and mentorship initiatives. These avenues will give the students guidance, wisdom, and accountability necessary for their spiritual growth. Lastly, I want to instill in students a passion for servant leadership, following the example of Jesus. At PUC, students have a unique opportunity to learn how to serve others through the careers they are pursuing, embracing a mindset of selflessness and compassion. 

How do you connect with young people and be a mentor throughout their spiritual lives?

I prioritize being present and accessible. I actively engage with young people by participating in various activities, attending student-led events, and being visible in communal spaces. Doing so lets students know I am available for conversations, ready to answer their questions, and offer guidance when needed. I also strive to create a welcoming environment where young people feel safe to express their spiritual thoughts and questions without judgment. This fosters an atmosphere of trust and openness. Lastly, I take pride in being a supportive listener. I provide a space where young people can freely share their joys, struggles, and doubts. By actively listening and building trust, I encourage them to develop a vibrant prayer life, seeking guidance and strength from God firsthand. 

How can the PUC family serve and support you as you minister for us? 

There are two essential things I would love my new PUC family to do. First, I ask for patience. I am eager to fully engage in campus life and serve the PUC community. However, to effectively fulfill my role as chaplain, I believe this first year should be dedicated to learning, supporting others, implementing new ideas, and allowing us to become acquainted, ensuring effective collaboration. Secondly, I ask you to pray for me. Feel free to reach out to me If you have spare time during the week to offer a prayer. As a pastor, it is not very common to have someone pray for you apart from your spouse and immediate family. Having someone approach you and say, “pastor, can I pray for you?” is truly uplifting. 

What are you looking forward to at PUC?

During my visit to PUC for interviews, I had the privilege of meeting numerous incredible individuals who were wholeheartedly dedicated to serving and working for the betterment of the PUC community. The warm and inviting atmosphere, the inspiring vision, and the ongoing commitment to nurturing students professionally and spiritually ignited a strong passion within me to be part of this fantastic community. This experience has filled me with enthusiasm and motivation to serve and collaborate with the leadership as we collectively shape the future of PUC. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Beyond work, there are several activities that bring me joy. First, I cherish spending quality time with my wife and our two very energetic elderly beagles. Second, my wife and I share a deep passion for traveling. Through our journeys, we have encountered remarkable individuals, immersed ourselves in different cultures, and beheld breathtaking landscapes. Third, I am an avid reader who embarked on a fun literary adventure during the pandemic. I decided to read books from every country, beginning with Afghanistan and currently making my way through Mexico. This literary exploration has fostered my appreciation for the similarities and differences across various cultures. Additionally, I find great enjoyment in playing golf, not only for the game itself but for the connections it allows me to forge beyond the professional sphere. Lastly, I proudly declare myself a devoted Star Wars fan, and May 4th holds a special place in my heart as a cherished holiday.

With growing up in Napa, working for the Napa Valley Register at a young age, then years later proposing to his wife in Napa- it is a full circle moment for Pastor Lopez to be back in the city that holds a special place in his heart and being the new chaplain at PUC.