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Visual Arts Student Designs Set for PUC Musical  

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During the beginning of this school year, auditions were in process for the Jericho Road Musical, which tells the story of two young individuals who fall in love, get married, have a child, and face problems throughout their relationship. Senior graphic design major Sarah Franklin saw this as a fun chance to work on props and set design. With already having experience with stage production and film set design and taking a class from musical director Lindsay Morton, Lindsay asked Sarah if she would be interested in creating the artwork and advertisements for the show too. All these roles created a great opportunity for Sarah to use the material in her portfolio as she finishes her senior year at PUC. 

How long did it take to complete all the art for this show? What did you enjoy the most about this experience?

I completed all the advertising artwork over winter break, and it probably took me around 30 hours. For the set design, we’ve been working all quarter and are still working on painting and constructing everything. I really enjoy working with other people on a project and helping them make their vision come to life.

Do you have a favorite art piece from the show?

It’s difficult to answer this because I consider the whole set an art piece. If I had to pick an individual piece from the show, I’d say the tree from the wedding scene, which turned out beautifully. Bethanee (Tabura) did most of the carving and painting of the tree trunk, which was made of several layers of foam, and we worked together to add the vines and leaves to the branches. We also added string lights to create a whimsical look that fits the wedding scene nicely. 

What do you like the most about PUC’s visual arts department?

I really appreciate the feeling of family in the VA dept. Throughout my years here, I have become so close to my professors and classmates. I truly value the diversity of the department and how we work together and benefit from our differences. I think it’s amazing when people who are different from each other can learn from one another and create truly amazing things together.

What have been the most important things you’ve learned from your classes, professors, or mentors?

One of the most important things I’ve learned as a visual arts major is to take inspiration from anything and everything. As an artist, I am constantly absorbing the environment I’m in—people, objects, architecture, colors, shapes, shadows, lines, graphics, words, lyrics, you name it. Being an artist means you are always taking in your surroundings and looking at the world from different points of view. It also means you are processing all this information in a way that is unique to you and relaying these new perspectives to others in a way that moves them or makes them think differently. 

Is there a class you found most valuable to you?

There are a lot of classes that were valuable to me, so I’ll give you all of them and a short reason why:

Astronomy with James Robertson–gave me perspective on how small we are and how short life is.

History of Contemporary Art Since 1945 with Jon Carstens—my favorite art history class of all-time; introduced me to some of my favorite artists and works (Mark Rothko, Josef Albers, Andy Warhol, and Lynda Benglis to name a few). These artists’ works were an integral part of my senior thesis research and inspiration, so this class has been extremely valuable to me.

Packaging Design with Cliff Rusch–aside from this being one of the most fun classes for me as a graphic designer, I ended up becoming really close to my classmates and creating some great friendships which I value so much. Not only do I value our friendships, but also the constructive criticism, competition, and push to become a better designer. 

Can you share any projects you hope to do this year?

Aside from Jericho Road, this year’s main project is my senior thesis. I am working on gathering data from individuals about their favorite colors and using this data to represent the evolution of color preferences throughout one’s life. The data will be visualized through a series of paintings and will be hung in the Rasmussen Art Gallery this spring. 

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.”

Faces of PUC: Princess Espinoza

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Princess Espinoza is a pre-nursing freshman from Sacramento. After researching other nursing programs, she found the department of nursing at PUC and campus life the most promising, which settled her decision on where to attend college. Princess’s favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers family is how close and strong everyone is together. 

What is your dream job? 

My dream job is to be the best labor and delivery nurse I can be. I dream to be a part of one of the happiest and most memorable moments for parents, and I know getting to experience that kind of love is going to be limitless. I also want to be an influencer throughout my learning process. I am starting now by recording my routine and study habits to show every aspect of my journey to becoming a nurse.  

How does that compare to what you wanted to be when you were young? 

I’ve always wanted to be an influencer, but it’s always been a passion on the side. When I was younger, I actually wanted to be an architect. Although I had the same idea to share insight into any obstacles I would experience with those who were interested in knowing. 

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

My favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers family is knowing how close and strong everyone is together. I’ve met so many hardworking, dedicated students as well as other admin members who love supporting their family and friends as much as they can, making sure we are all successful in the end. 

Where is your favorite place in the world? 

I haven’t traveled to many places but so far, my favorite place would have to be Mexico. There’s so much to Mexico. The vibrant colors, the welcoming culture, and of course the good food.

If you had to be trapped in a movie for a day, what movie would you choose? 

If I had to be trapped in a movie, I would simply choose Alice and Wonderland. Everything about this movie was so cool. They have animals that can talk, mind you, they also have a character of their own. There are potions and spells for almost anything. The people there are friendly—for the most part. Wonderland is a literal dream world. My name isn’t Alice either, so I know I wouldn’t be a trouble to anyone in Wonderland. 

What is something you’re passionate about? 

I am passionate about personal growth. Personal growth, to me, is all about identifying my long-term and short-term goals. Reading and repeating positive affirmations whenever made possible. Prioritizing healthy eating and exercise habits. Especially reading self-help books in hopes to learn a new skill. Practicing forgiveness within myself and seeking it in others. Accepting helpful advice from others. Tracking and celebrating my progress for anything and everything. Establishing budgets for healthy spending habits. Lastly, taking part in activities outside of my comfort zone.

Meet PUC’s SA: Natalia Gomez, VP of Publication & Marketing 

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Natalia Gomez is this year’s SA VP of Publication & Marketing. She’s in charge of running SA’s social media accounts, creating all the visuals for their announcements and events, and in charge of designing their merch. Running their social accounts has given Natalia an “inside scoop” on how the student body feels about their events and allowed her to connect with more people. 

Natalia answered some questions for us to learn more about being a part of SA. 

What do you enjoy the most about being SA VP of Publication and Marketing? 

It might sound silly but I honestly love getting to read all the DMs, comments, and answers to polls or questions that get put on our Instagram accounts. It’s like an inside scoop as to how the student body feels or thinks about events, and it’s also allowed me to get to know more people!

What is the most important part of your role?

I would say that the most important part of my role is communication. It’s my job to communicate with other members of the team to get all the necessary information to create posts. Then I have to communicate those details across social media to the student body. I also check in with all the DMs for any questions or suggestions that SA gets through our @puc.sa & @withmewednesdays accounts on Instagram. 

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

I really love our team’s dynamic! I think it’s really special to get to be a part of a group that all have different majors and are a part of different departments or groups on campus. Without SA I’m not sure if we would have all met and gotten the chance to see each other on a weekly basis. Plus our group chat is really funny and it always makes me laugh. 

What goals do you have set for the rest of the school year with SA and the campus? 

One of my biggest goals right now is working on an SA march drop and possibly making it accessible online, so stay tuned!

Do you have a favorite SA event? If so, which one and why? 

Well during fall quarter my favorite SA event is the corn maze in Petaluma! I love getting to go and find my way out of the maze while scaring my friends or them scaring me. Although I also love the excuse to dress up and take photos with friends so banquet is always special to me. I think this year’s banquet will be bittersweet since it’ll be my last and graduation will be right around the corner. 

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

There’s so many plans for the rest of the year! Of course we will have poor mans banquet, actual banquet and hopefully a spirit week! A future even I’m looking forward to is a rollerskating night. I’m determined to be able to roller-skate without holding onto a friend for dear life!

What are your favorite things about PUC? 

I really love all the nature that we are surrounded by here at PUC. One of my favorite things to do on the weekends is grab a blanket and have a picnic or read out in on of the grassy areas. The grove is one of my favorite places for some quiet time, and in the spring its a great place to escape the heat on campus! Hammocking is also a lot of fun once the weather gets a bit sunnier!

Meet PUC’s New Lead Pastor, Nate Furness

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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.

Missing Class? Here’s What To Do 

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Although you should never miss class, we understand emergencies can happen, or you can get sick. If you are ever to miss class in college, here’s what you need to do: 

Check Attendance & Late Work Policy 

If you plan on missing classes due to being sick, check your professor’s attendance and late work policies in their syllabi to know what to expect before talking with them. 

Check Course Calendar 

Another thing you need to check in your syllabi is your course calendar. See what your professor plans on teaching the day you miss and bring that up with them to see if there will be any changes. 

Talk or Email Your Professor In Advance 

Please inform your professors ahead of time that you will be missing class. Not only is this the responsible thing to do, but it allows you and your professor to work out a plan for missing class. If you’re not able to meet with your professor, address these things in your email: 

  • Apologize for missing class
  • Explain why you were not in attendance
  • Ask what you can do to make up for your absence 
  • Thank them for their time

Don’t wait till the end of the day to email them- do it ASAP.

Ask Your Classmates & Professor For Help 

Ask your classmates what you missed in class and see if they can share some of their notes with you. Bring up any questions or concerns to your professors because you don’t want to get behind in lectures or assignments. 

One of the great things about attending PUC is being in smaller classes. This makes it easier to meet with your professors, have them get to know you, and build relationships with them-unlike larger universities. Our professors care about you and your well-being, so don’t be afraid to talk to them when something comes up and you’ll have to miss class. They will do all they can to help you- just do your part and reach out to them. 

Faces of PUC: Akemi Ohara

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Welcome one of our new Pioneers, Akemi Ohara! She is a freshman pre-nursing student from Folsom, California., and dreams of being an ER triage nurse. Akemi decided to join PUC because of the beautiful campus and the holistic approach to learning.  

What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become an ER triage nurse. I love the quick decision, adrenaline-rushing, out-of-the-box thinking required for this kind of environment. 

How does that compare to what you wanted to be when you were young?

From a very young age, I wanted to become a nurse, just like my mother, but I recently grew interested in the Emergency Room. 

Where is your favorite place in the world?

My favorite place in the world is anywhere with my family. My family is my support and comfort when I am feeling down. I also love the mountains 🙂

If you had to be trapped in a movie for a day, what movie would you choose?

I would choose Moana! I love the ocean, and I love adventure. She is so connected to nature and how cool would it be to talk to animals!

What is something you’re passionate about?

I am passionate about learning and growing. You learn something new every day!

Recommend a place to go in the Bay Area on a weekend.

Japan Town!! If you love Asian cuisine and Daiso, I highly recommend checking it out. There is so much to do and see. 

Q&A with First-Year Aviation Student Noah Noble 

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Noah Noble is a freshman aviation student from Lemoore, California. Ever since Noah was a kid, he always wanted to be in Aviation, which is why he chose this program. One of the reasons he particularly chose to attend PUC is because the program would allow him to make his dreams come true and train in an environment that will prepare him for his future.  

Noah answered a few questions for us to get a glance at his first year in the aviation department.  

What made you decide to attend PUC? 

I chose to come to PUC because it was close to my grandparents, so it gave me a close connection to home. Another reason was because PUC’s aviation program allowed me to pursue my aviation dreams and train in an environment that will prepare me well for my future career.

What has been your favorite class, and why? 

My favorite class is AVIA 176. This is the beginning flying class, where you will learn the basics of flying your airplane. This is my favorite class because it allows me to explore the areas around Angwin from a view that not many get to see. We get to travel to new areas and airports, such as Yolo County, Santa Rosa, and more. 

What do you like the most about the program? 

The part I love most about the program is how helpful and close-knit the Aviation community is. The instructors are extremely helpful and are always willing to help you with whatever you need, even if it’s not aviation related. Not only that but being in the program gets you great exposure to the aviation industry. 

What are some valuable things you’ve learned from your program? 

The most valuable thing that I have learned from this program is attention to detail. In aviation, 99% isn’t enough. You always want to make sure you give 100% to everything, not only to ensure safety but also proficiency.

Can you give any advice to high school students who are interested in pursuing your major? 

For anyone hoping to be in aviation, I would say be mentally prepared to dive into a lot of work and a very fast pace. The aviation program moves quickly, and there is a ton of information to learn in a short amount of time. Another thing that people should expect is cost. Earning your private license and other pilot ratings costs a lot of money. The average price for your private pilot’s license can range from $11,000 to $15,000. 

Outside of classes, what activities or events does the program hoat during the school year? 

There is an Aviation Club called Angwin Flyers. They host many outings such as dinners, movies, and other hangouts for students to participate in. 

What is your favorite thing about being in the Pioneers family? 

My favorite thing about being in the Pioneers family is the close-knit community. You get to know almost everyone here, and they are all extremely kind and friendly. It allowed me to gain new friends quickly and build new relationships. 

Faces of PUC: Christian Junior De Jesus

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Sophomore student Christian Junior De Jesus is a BBA finance major and communication minor from Manchester, New Hampshire. He dreams of being the CEO/Founder of a Fortune 500 company and is passionate about entrepreneurship. His favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers family is being an RA, the friendships he’s made, and events at PUC.

What is your dream job? 

CEO/Founder of a Fortune 500 company

How does that compare to what you wanted to be when you were young? 

I wanted to be a computer engineer like my father, but as I grew older I realized that it wasn’t my life purpose.

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

The RA life, friendships I make, and events I participate in.

Where is your favorite place in the world?

New York City because the skyscrapers remind me of what I can accomplish in life.

 If you had to be trapped in a movie for a day, what movie would you choose?

The 300

What is something you’re passionate about? 

Entrepreneurship and Personality Systems 

Recommend a place to go in the Bay Area on a weekend 

Santa Clara

Achieve Your Best On Tests

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Sometimes students study so hard for a test and don’t get the exact outcome they hoped for. If your study techniques aren’t working for you, it’s time to change something about it. Here are ways to achieve your best on exams.

Make A Study Plan

Balancing your time between doing homework and studying for several classes can be tough. Making a study plan can help you stay on track of what you need to study and how long you want to spend studying. Note what specific parts you need to focus on and review. Either make this plan the night before or in the morning, so you know what needs to get done.

Go To Class

Skipping class will not help you prepare and do better on exams, so please go to class. Going to class will keep you on top of your studies, help you remember information, and feel more prepared for exams.

Take Notes

Take notes in class so you can look back on them while studying. Some teachers use PowerPoints during lectures, so write down everything and anything you know is important. Your notes will be a big resource to you and will help you prepare for your test.

Make A Study Guide

Make a study guide in advance with the notes you’ve taken and handouts given in class. If you organize your notes by terms, chapters, and sections, it’ll be easier to find what you need and be more beneficial to your learning.

(A lot of students use Google Docs to make a study guide. If you haven’t tried that yet, make your study guides there.)

Use Supplies That Helps You Learn

If you don’t enjoy taking notes or writing a study guide, use supplies that will make studying more interesting. Use colored sharpies, pens, and highlighters to make your study guide. Color code sections that you need to study more or will for sure be on the test.

Go Over Questions You Struggle With

When you study, make a little more time to go over the questions you struggle with. You won’t be able to achieve your best on tests if you go into it with uncertain answers and less confidence.

Work With Others

Find classmates that you would work well with when it comes to studying. Students have found that having a study group helps them remember the material and; gives them a better understanding of what to expect on the test.

(If you need extra help understanding a class, visit TLC to schedule a tutoring session or ask for help from your professor. PUC has resources to help you succeed!)

Work Ahead

Don’t wait until the week of your test to start studying. Work ahead and start writing out the information you will need to know. The earlier you study, the more ready you will be for the test.

Take Breaks

Take breaks so you don’t overwhelm yourself or burn out. You’re going to be gathering a lot of information, so give yourself and your brain a break.

Get A Good Night’s Rest

Getting a good night’s rest will make a difference in how well you do on your test. You’ll be more alert and won’t feel tired or sluggish.

We hope some of these tips help you. Study habits are important in college and it’s good to establish them early. Work hard, take care of yourself, and pray. You got this!