Tag Archives: student life

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Spotlight: BevenGreg Delos Reyes 

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

What is something you want to accomplish before graduating? 

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

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

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

What made you decide to attend PUC? 

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

What is your favorite class?  

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

What will you miss the most about PUC?  

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

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

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

SA Feature: Alexander Chuquimia, President 

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

Tell us about being SA President.

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

What motivated you to run for President?

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

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

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

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

What is your leadership philosophy?

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

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

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

Do you have a favorite SA event? 

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

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

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

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

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

What are your favorite things about PUC?

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

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.

Senior Spotlight: Theodora Sirghi

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We want to highlight one of our seniors, Theodora Sirghi. Theodora is from Queens, New York, and is completing her B.S. in Emergency Services, Paramedic. What made her decide to attend PUC was the academics provided. “I was astonished to hear that PUC not only has an emergency service department, but you can also get a degree out of it rather than if you were to take a week/month course online,” shares Theodora. “Seeing that automatically grabbed my attention since that is what I specifically wanted to pursue.”

What is your dream job? 

My dream job is to be a paramedic firefighter.

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

When I was younger, I didn’t exactly know what I wanted to do, however I was always fascinated by the medical field especially since my older sister was in medical school at that time which inspired me. I wanted to pursue in something where I can help people 24/7 whenever and wherever and be able to give back to my community. 

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 diversity that is spread throughout the students here at PUC. You come across so many students who are not just from other parts of California but from other parts of the world and it’s just fascinating. 

Where is your favorite place in the world? 

My favorite place in the world would have to be my home, which is New York. One of the biggest pros of being born and raised in New York is that you’re in the heart of everything. The fast pace, the buzzing traffic, the hustle, and bustle of the people, the 24-hour life and the creative spirit make NYC one of the most vibrant places in the world. 

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 for a day it would have to be between either Terminator or Aliens. There’s not much of an explanation as to why I would choose these movies however, I simply love both movies due to growing up watching them on a daily. 

What is something you’re passionate about? 

Something I’m very passionate about is music. There are so many different styles and genres. Music is relaxing to me especially when I’m able to just grab my guitar and be able to play while soothing into the flow of the music.  It’s more than just a sound; it’s an art with rhythm, tune, emotion, and meaning. It has helped me face some difficult situations in the past. Some music even resembles the journey of my life. 

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

A place I recommend to go in the Bay Area on a weekend is Baker Beach located in San Francisco. It’s absolutely one of the best beaches in my opinion. You’ll find amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and it’s even more of a bonus if you go around sunset time. 

Faces of PUC: Daniel Randall

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Meet one of our newest Pioneers, Daniel Randall. He’s a freshman from Berrien Springs, Michigan, studying environmental science. Daniel loves being outdoors, which is why he decided to attend PUC, because of the college’s location and being “a great starting point for many outdoor adventures.”

What is your dream job? 

I want to do some kind of environmental conservation work. 

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

I would say that my current carrier goals are pretty far astray from when I was a kid. I always wanted to be a rock-star. 

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

My favorite part about being a part of the Pioneers’ Family is the people! I love the small campus feel and the ability to meet and know so many people’s names instead of just their faces. I love making new friends so come and talk to me. 

Where is your favorite place in the world? 

My favorite place in the world is really anywhere where I am in the woods. 

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

I would love to be trapped in the cinematic masterpiece that is Holes.

What is something you’re passionate about? 

I would say that two things that I am really passionate about are the proper teeth brushing order (water, toothpaste, water, then brush) and Patagonia Synchillas.

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

There are many places in the Bay Area that are really cool! But if I had to say one it would be Muir Woods National Monument. 

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!

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. 

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

Pioneers Profile: Jazlynn C. Hardy

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Jazlynn Hardy is a sophomore marketing communication major from Florida who plays guard for PUC’s women’s basketball team. Her favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers family is how they always support each other on and off the court and she is looking forward to growing chemistry with her teammates this season. 

What values have you learned by being on the team? 

To persevere even when things aren’t looking good because it’s always possible to turn things around with the right mindset.

What are you looking forward to this season? 

I’m looking forward to learning more about the game I love and growing chemistry with my teammates.

How do you balance your time between school and sports? 

I try to keep a planner to keep myself organized so I make sure I get everything I need to get done throughout my day. 

What’s your pregame song?

Anything Lil Baby. 

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

We always have each other’s back throughout anything, whether on or off the court. 

Can you share any advice for high school students interested in being college athletes? 

Never stop putting in work, whenever you think you’ve reached your limit push some more and it’s okay to fail and try again. 

Who is your favorite athlete? 

Probably Kobe because I admire his work ethic and dedication. 

What are other things you’re passionate about? 

My friends and family.