Tag Archives: Northern California College

An Interview with David Bui: Campus Ministries Worship Coordinator

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David Bui has the incredible privilege of curating a musical experience at PUC that elevates spiritual gatherings to a new level on campus. As worship coordinator for Campus Ministries, his role revolves around crafting the ideal setlist for events like Vespers, Week of Prayer, and GLOW. 

“I have the honor of selecting and arranging music that resonates with your heart and spirit, creating an atmosphere of reverence, reflection, and joy during Vespers,” said David. “Our Week of Prayer becomes a transformative journey as we explore faith and spirituality through the power of song. And when it’s time for GLOW, we come together in celebration and community to praise God. My year-long involvement in Campus Ministries has been a catalyst for my spiritual growth. I’m absolutely thrilled about the future that lies ahead on my spiritual journey!”

What made you want to be a part of campus ministries?

What truly captivated my heart and inspired me to become a part of Campus Ministries was the extraordinary role that music plays in this ministry. As a college student, I found myself irresistibly drawn to the power of music to connect, uplift, and inspire. It’s not just about melodies and lyrics; it’s about the connection everyone can make to God, the sense of community, and the spiritual resonance that music brings to our journey.

How do you balance team responsibilities and nursing school?

Navigating the challenging journey of a nursing student while also juggling on-campus responsibilities is difficult. However, I’ve found that the key to managing this is in the incredible support system I have. Christian De Jesus, Mika Palitang, Lily Chaffee, Kyler Vanhook, Abby Huerta, Ashley Castro, and Pastor Arturo are all big reasons why I can do both. They are not just teammates. They are my invaluable partners in organizing and planning, making the seemingly impossible- possible. Our collaboration isn’t just about dividing tasks; it’s about coming together as a unit to conquer the challenges we face. But their support doesn’t stop at planning. In times of struggle, when the weight of my nursing studies feels overwhelming, this team is there to offer a helping hand and reassurance. They understand the demanding nature of our academic pursuits and offer a sense of comfort.

What goals do you hope to accomplish with your team and campus?

As a team, our mission is pretty straightforward but incredibly impactful: We aim to enhance the spiritual lives of everyone on campus. Our goal is to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to understand who God is and hear His message through the events we organize. We believe that college life can be hectic, and it’s easy to get caught up in schooling, but that’s why we’re here, working diligently to create an atmosphere where spiritual enrichment is accessible to all. Whether you’re seeking answers, looking for a sense of belonging, or simply curious about matters of faith, we want our events to be a welcoming space where you can explore, learn, reflect, and grow.

What does being a part of the campus ministries team mean to you?

Being a part of Campus Ministries is about embracing a role beyond the surface. It means stepping into the shoes of a spiritual leader on campus, a person that anyone can turn to for guidance and support. It’s about forging connections. We’re not just here to set the stage for worship; we’re here to connect with others on a personal level. As spiritual leaders, we offer a safe space where students can come as they are, share their thoughts, doubts, and aspirations, and know they’ll be heard and supported. Being part of Campus Ministries is an opportunity to make a real impact on the lives of our fellow students. It’s about creating a beautiful worship environment, yes, but it’s also about building meaningful connections, fostering personal growth, and sowing the seeds of positivity and understanding that can transform our campus community for the better.

How can students get involved with campus spiritual life?

Getting involved with Campus Ministries is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. One of the most accessible ways to dive into Campus Ministries is by attending our exciting events. Whether it’s Vespers, a serene and reflective evening of worship, or Bible Study, where you can delve deeper into the teachings of faith- you’ll discover spaces that encourage personal growth and spiritual exploration. But we don’t just want you to be a spectator; we invite you to become an active participant in our mission. Volunteering is a fantastic way to contribute your time, energy, and skills to our collective efforts. You can join us for Vespers preparations, share your insights in Bible Study, help serve through Afterlight or bring joy and positivity to our community with GLOW. Collegiate Sabbath School is another avenue where you can connect with like-minded peers, engage in meaningful discussions, and strengthen your spiritual foundation.

What made you decide to attend PUC?

When I first committed to PUC, it was the nursing program that initially captured my attention and drove my decision to enroll. However, what I’ve discovered during my time here has not only solidified my commitment to this institution but has shaped my college experience. It’s the vibrant spiritual life at PUC that has truly kept me rooted here and enriched my journey in ways I never expected. The people I’ve met here, the friendships I’ve forged, and the mentors who’ve guided me have all played an instrumental role in helping me intimately connect with God. Amid the rigorous demands of the nursing program, I’ve discovered that the spiritual life at PUC has been an anchor, offering purpose, and a sense of belonging.

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

My favorite thing about being part of the Pioneers family is the strong sense of connection. What’s special here is that the relationships feel close and personal. My professors know my name and take a real interest in my progress. When I walk into places like the Grind, I can quickly strike up conversations and connect with fellow students. This sense of connection isn’t limited to the classroom; it’s everywhere on campus. Whether it’s during an event or just hanging out with friends, there’s a friendly and accepting atmosphere. Being a part of the Pioneers family means more than just studying; it means being part of a community where people genuinely care about you. It’s this warm connection that makes my college experience both educational and truly fulfilling.

PUC Climbs U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges List

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By Laura Gang

Pacific Union College was again lauded for its excellence in higher education, ranking high among the region’s top institutions in the U.S. News & World Report 2023-24 Best College list released today.

U.S. News & World Report heralded PUC as the No. 2 Best Value School among colleges in the larger Western region, a jump from No. 6 last year. In California alone, PUC is first.

A Best Value School, according to the publication, is an institution credited with excellent academic programs and affordability due to low tuition costs and financial aid assistance. 

“I believe the best value that comes with a PUC degree is that our students are connected to a community of faith and well-prepared for a lifetime of service,” said Lindsay Hayasaka, PUC’s vice president of academic administration and academic dean. “Being equipped to create positive change in the world and live out kingdom values is truly invaluable—and this is what we are most proud of at PUC.” 

PUC President Ralph Trecartin agrees.

“These rankings have once again confirmed that Pacific Union College is a leader in higher education, not just for its quality academics but for its affordability,” Trecartin said. “We have consciously provided merit scholarships for students who demonstrate high academic qualities, but we also strive to make a college education at PUC possible for a range of students. Being a best-value college to me also means we are committed to practicing our eternal values.”

In the overall ranking, PUC ranks No. 13 out of 48 Regional Colleges West, up from No. 19 in 2022.

PUC maintained its status as a top performer in Social Mobility, ranking No. 12 out of 48 colleges in the Western region. Colleges in this category are compared based on the graduation rates of Pell Grant recipients to non-recipients.

Hayaska said these rankings show that PUC is fulfilling its mission to deliver Christ-centered education to students and prepare them for service.

“Our students are amazing—they are bright, curious, and ambitious for positive change in the world,” she said. “As professors, staff, and administrators, our job is to support, equip, teach, and inspire students to achieve their goals. We have been doing this for over 140 years—and plan to continue fulfilling the mission for many more.”

Trecartin said this is a reflection of the change and progress that’s been happening on campus. “These rankings are a testament to the hard work of our leadership, faculty, and staff. God has truly blessed our college,” he said.

The 2023-2024 Best Colleges rankings evaluate colleges and universities on a host of measures of academic quality. Areas include retention and graduation rates, class size, faculty, per-student spending, peer universities’ assessments, and graduates’ average federal loan debt.

For more information about the 2023-2024 rankings, visit www.usnews.com/best-colleges.

Meet Timothy Robertson: Assistant Professor of Data Science

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Coming from Southwest Michigan is Timothy Robertson, PUC’s assistant professor of data science. When he was given the chance to work at PUC, it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. Since January, Timothy has been teaching data science, machine learning, statistics and mathematics, and advises students.

Do you have a favorite class to teach?

My favorite classes to teach are Calculus I & II because they involve thinking about abstract concepts that have very practical applications.

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

My favorite thing about being a Pioneer is making connections with the students and faculty. It is much easier to get to know people at PUC than at larger schools I’ve been at.

Do you have a favorite place to eat in the Napa Valley? 

I prefer home cooked meals over restaurant meals, so any place I can get a home cooked meal is my favorite place to eat.

What would students be surprised to find out about you? 

I won five intramural racquetball titles during graduate school.

How are you spending your summer break? 

Summer break is when I work on my personal projects that were undone during the school year, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing.

Where is your dream vacation? 

Visiting a volcano is my dream vacation. I’ve seen a number of geographies across the USA, but volcanoes are still on my bucket list.

Finish this sentence: On Sunday mornings you can find me… 
On Sunday mornings you can find me either at the gym training or sleeping.

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. 

A Glance Into PUC’s Film Program from Professor Tim de la Torre – Assistant Professor of Visual Arts

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Tim de la Torre has been working at PUC for 10 years now. He graduated from PUC’s film program in 2006, with the college’s location and the Visual Arts Department holding a special place in his heart. There was a moment of transition in his life when Dean Milbert Mariano (then chair of the visual arts department) called to ask if Tim would be interested in interviewing for an instructor position. He’s so thankful Dean Milbert and his department saw potential in him because “It’s been a fantastic fit”. 

Tell us about PUC’s film and television production program.

Our program here at PUC is unique in so many good ways! The diversity of our student body is a real benefit to our writers and artists who are exploring topics that matter to them. It allows them to have the benefit of input from people from different intersecting identities that can help each other avoid stereotypes and cliché’s that are easy to miss when you create in an echo chamber. 

I am really proud of the culture we’ve created where students learn hands-on production skills with the equipment and make high-quality films through practice. Our rural location and residential campus housing mean students end up spending a lot of time in Fisher Hall and feel a sense of belonging and shared ownership of the space. We are like a family. It also means we are always making and creating because we live our lives in this space. 

What are the class sizes?

Our department has 40-50 students in 3 disciplines: film, graphic design, and fine art. Our small class sizes mean you will know all of your professors and student cohort. It allows faculty to really help mentor and guide you as we get to know you throughout the years of your program. 

Is there a class you enjoy teaching the most?

Group Production is my favorite class. It’s where we meet twice a week, and students pitch ideas for film projects they want to create, and we support the students in producing their ideas. There are always incredible projects that come out of that class! 

What equipment is available for students? 

We have everything you would expect to see on the set of a major motion picture production. We have a fully loaded grip truck for location production, high-end cinema cameras, and smaller cameras with differing unique use cases, such as documentary and low-light environments. We also have a huge range of lenses, including anamorphic, cinema zooms, probe lenses, tilt-shift lenses, and vintage glass. 

In the last couple of years, we even taught classes using Unreal Engine for film production and have a senior finishing her thesis project using Unreal Engine. The best way to understand is to reach out to the professors and come and visit us. If there is something specific you want to explore, chances are we have the tools to do that or the ability to obtain them and support you in pursuing your interests.  

Do students need internships? 

I always say the most important class you’ll take at PUC is your internship, which ideally, does not take place at PUC! It’s where you take your skills, knowledge, and professional and interpersonal skills and go out and get real-world experience that often leads to a job after graduation! 

What are the highlights from your department this year? 

We worked on multiple projects funded by the Sonscreen Film Festival, which allowed us to cast professional actors and even hire some professional crew to work alongside our student crew. The level of production quality and experience our students gained from this really helped us make up for the time we were teaching online during COVID when those students didn’t have as many opportunities to develop set experiences. 

Where do some of your graduates work? 

We have many alums in LA working in film as writers, directors, editors, and in the camera department. Others created their own companies and are documentarians, corporate and non-profit production. Some have gone on to work for various church-based organizations such as Hope Channel, Amazing Facts, and 3ABN. 

What should future film and television students know and prepare for before college? 

Bring your curiosity and hunger to learn. Be prepared to work hard. It’s the only way to close the gap between your taste and skill.  

PUC faculty and students and alumni attend the Sonscreen Film Festival in April 2023. Eight PUC student films were selected as official entries and PUC won three categories and was runner-up in two other categories.

The Visual Arts Department grip truck makes transporting all of the equipment necessary for location production possible!

Running a demo shoot for College Days in 2023.

On the set of “Radish Soup” which will be completed in late 2023. 

Tim de la Torre and student Josue Hilario prepping the location before production begins of “Inner Space” in May 2023. 

Prepping the location before production begins of “Inner Space” in May 2023. 

“Inner Space” production in May 2023. 

Make sure to check out their YouTube channel www.youtube.com/pucfilm and follow their Instagram @pucart for upcoming projects!

Advice for Post-Grads 

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Whether you graduated from high school or college recently, navigating life after graduation can be difficult. If you are feeling scared or nervous, that’s okay! It’s normal to fear this next phase of your life. Here’s some advice for you undergrads:

Rest & Have Fun 

Rest and have fun after graduation! You’ve spent the last year studying and not sleeping enough- you deserve a much needed break. 

Don’t Rush, Move At Your Own Pace 

Please try not to compare yourself to others. Even if others seem to have it all figured out before you, that’s fine! Move at your own pace and don’t rush. Don’t make decisions based on what you think you should be doing or what your friends are doing. Do what feels right to you and be present in this time of growing and learning. 

Make Time for Joy 

Adjusting to this new life change may seem daunting, so make time for the things that bring you joy. When you start working, you might forget or be too tired to do things you enjoy with all the responsibilities you have. Be sure to make time for joy- whether that be spending time with friends, family, and your hobbies. 

Budget   

When finding a balance between your work and personal life, spending money can be easy to do. Before you buy things for your personal life or take a trip, pay your bills or loans first. This will help you budget and keep yourself from spending overboard. We know it isn’t fun but welcome to the “real world”. 

Learn New Skills 

Whether or not you land your ideal position, learn from your job. Take advantage of the opportunities provided so you can develop new skills. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, lead or take on more responsibilities. From answering the phone, taking care of clients or customers, or writing emails, these skills can help strengthen your resume as a new grad. Make the best of all your new experiences. 

If you’re taking time off from working, learn other skills you’ve put aside due to time. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Put Yourself Out There 

Putting yourself out there can be nerve-racking- but it can lead to career opportunities and friendships. You never know who knows who, and if you’re lucky, you’ll meet someone who works in your desired field.

You don’t have to have everything figured out. Life throws a lot of curveballs and you’re still growing and learning more about yourself. 

PUC Alum Sierra Lewis Wins the Jury Award at Sonscreen Film Festival 

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Sonscreen is an Adventist film festival hosted by the NAD that takes place every year during the spring in Southern California. This year, Sonscreen was in Loma Linda, CA, where more than 20 PUC film students and alums attended, along with professors Rajeev Sigamoney and Tim de la Torre. At the festival, they attended film screenings, professional showcases, participated in a pitch competition, and attended the awards banquet.

PUC film and television honors alum Sierra Lewis ‘22 has attended the festival three times and sadly couldn’t make it out to this year’s festival like she hoped. Sierra has always enjoyed going since it’s a great time to bond with the department and connect with other filmmakers and creatives from other schools. During this year’s festival, she won the Jury Award and was runner-up for Best Documentary. 

What does winning the Jury Award mean to you? 

Since graduating from PUC, it hasn’t been as easy to find/make time for my art, and I’m not working in a “creative field” at the moment. But winning the Jury Award means a lot because it gave me that validation that reminded me that I’m on the right track, despite what it looks like- and that I shouldn’t give up because there’s a place for my work and for these stories to be told in the world.

Share with us about the project you submitted for this category.

The project I submitted to the festival was my senior thesis documentary titled, Echoes. My intention was to explore the idea of what “do it yourself” (DIY) looks like within the Black community and its intersectionality between arts and politics.

I was lucky enough to get to know some amazing artists from a collective called Nure (based in Oakland, CA), and I juxtaposed their stories alongside found/archival footage that I felt “echoed” what was being said. At least for me, the idea of Black DIY is something that feels like a cultural heritage, and I hope that the film was able to showcase that tradition.

You were also Best Documentary Runner-Up at the festival. Talk to us about your documentary.

As far as inspiration for the film, I’m inspired by creative and introspective people. People who think and philosophize about life, and can’t help but synthesize their thoughts and feelings with a creative outlet.

In any case, for most (if not all) of my films, I tend to be led by music. I always make a playlist that helps me enter the right headspace for the project that I’m working on. For Echoes, there were a lot of Moses Sumney, Solange, and moody jazz instrumentals.

How did you develop an interest in filmmaking? Did you know you always wanted to do this?

Oh boy. My interest in filmmaking actually developed from Youtube. When I was a high school freshman, I had a YouTube channel with a close friend, which lasted for a few years. As time went on, I wanted to keep pushing myself further to make videos of quality, vs just silly challenges or whatever. Eventually, I made my first little short film and started doing character profiles on my friends. My mom thought I should study film in college, so you can say the rest is history haha. 

How has being a student at PUC helped you grow as a filmmaker? 

Oh my goodness, being a student at PUC has expedited so much of my growth as a filmmaker and artist. There’s such great energy in the Visual Arts Department at Fisher Hall. Our professors give so much to provide us with great experiences both inside and outside of the classroom, from the various film projects to the different excursions like trekking down to Sonscreen Film Festival. It’s a beautiful, safe space, and I’ve always felt supported by my teachers and peers. Fisher feels like home. 

Is there someone at PUC that has made an impact on you?

Gosh so many. If I had to give names, I’d say Michael Jefferson, Dean Philpott, and every teacher in the Visual Arts Department- no explanation needed. 

Can you share any future projects with us?

At the moment, I’m trying to work on an accompanying zine for my thesis film. Sort of like supplementary material, and other than that, I’m working on putting out movie reviews/film critiques and experimenting with different formats for that kind of content too. Anything else, I guess you’ll just have to wait and see. 😉 

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.