A Consistently Safe Space
Can you major in 英语 literature and minor in biology and biomedical sciences? Yes, says Sofia Bouma – and, in her book, it’s a winning combination.
She started her college career with a major in biology and plans to pursue medical school. By the beginning of her junior year, she realized how much she loved 英语 and was disappointed that she hadn’t chosen to pursue it.
“When I came to understand that biology and 英语 don’t have to be mutually exclusive, I changed my major to 英语 literature and kept biology as two minors,” 她说. “I love learning about humanity through language and writing, and I love learning about God and the natural world that surrounds all of us through science.”
Her post-graduation goal is to find a vocation that combines the two areas of interest, whether that’s medical-technical writing or working as a liaison in a health care setting. 研究生 school is still something she hopes to pursue as well, whether in a medical field or through a focus on the humanities.
Sofia is also involved in Dordt’s theatre program, having acted in several productions.
“Theatre is unique because it enables you to embody the mind and life of another person and tell their story to others,” 她说. “It has allowed me to actively work on communication, empathy, and teamwork. I’ve still never lost the passion of telling a story that I care about through theatre.”
She didn’t choose to major in theatre, but she was able to get a theatre scholarship as well as a music scholarship. Being at Dordt, 她说, has helped her to pursue many interests.
“Because of these scholarships, I’ve been able to participate actively in both theatre and music for all four years,” 她说. “Dordt truly does have a community that makes it very accessible to branch out and try new things.”
She’s also grateful for her professors. “I’ve really appreciated the personal relationships I’ve gotten to have with professors,” 她说. “I have always felt like they have my best academic interest in mind and are willing to work with me when I need it.”
Sofia also has found Dordt’s campus to be a “consistently safe space,” 她说.
“I don’t feel scared walking from the library to my apartment at night, and the amount of times I’ve left my laptop on a table somewhere and have come back to find it exactly where it was is astronomical (not that I recommend that, of course),” she adds.
整体, 她说, Dordt has provided an overwhelming system of support that has made her feel safe and loved during her four years here.
“Having friends that have gone elsewhere to college, I know that this is something truly unique to campus,” 她说.
