Rachel Kolb
Major: Congregational & Youth Ministries
Why EMU: I chose to attend EMU because I wanted to continue being challenged in my walk with God. Also, I knew that if I attended EMU I would have many different opportunities for leadership.
Interesting/challenging/helpful in major: The professors of my classes were an asset to my learning. They have such valuable experiences which really make the content of their material very rich. The most challenging, yet rewarding, things that I’ve encountered since being at EMU has been hearing different viewpoints on global issues and topics in the church. It’s good to hear other sides of the story and then take those into consideration as college students form their own morals and beliefs.
Advice: If you choose a Bible and religion major, it’s important to remember that your beliefs will be challenged, but in a good way. There are also professors who care and would love to talk about whatever you’re struggling with. The B&R department is small enough that you can create lasting relationships with peers and professors.

Jonathan Lamb
Major: Culture, Religion and Mission
Why EMU: I came to EMU to find a Christian community of education that would help my walk in faith, not tear it down.
Interesting/challenging/helpful in major: My major is enjoyable because it involves many concepts that are hardly ever talked about in public school.
Advice: The knowledge and guidance of professors in the B&R department is exceptionable. They are the quality that makes future leaders of the Church, including all denominations.

Nathan Hershberger
Major: Philosophy and Theology, and History
Why EMU: Anabaptist environment and because nothing beats the Shenandoah Valley in the spring and fall. That and some other things.
Current Interests: Familiarizing myself with the current conversations going on in Philosophy and Theology. Early Modern European History. History of Islam. John Howard Yoder, Stanley Hauerwas.
Interesting/challenging/helpful in major: good variety of class is positive. There aren’t many people in my major in my year, which is too bad.
Advice: Do it. Great professors, interesting classes.

Benaiah Wade
Major: Philosophy and Theology
Why EMU: Initially my decision was based on size and location along with EMU’s Christian identity. I knew little about Mennonites before I came, but once I met a few of the teachers, I knew that EMU provided a community in which my learning would be fostered while my spiritual growth could flourish.
Interesting/challenging/helpful in major: Discussion outside of the classroom can be difficult but provides a chance for learning different ways to convey messages to people who usually do not follow the lingo of most philosophical works.
Advice: The staff in the B&R department is dynamic; providing insight from various viewpoints and teaching styles. As I progress through school I have begun to appreciate every one of them for their styles, quirks, passions, abilities, talents, and commitment that few other schools can come close to providing.