Why I love Friends!

As a returning adult student learner, Friends University gave me the chance to obtain my lifetime dream of earning a college degree. Though I was hesitant to begin, the fellowship of my peers at Friends assured me I had made the right decision.

The start of the 1918 school year brought President William O. Mendenhall. World War I was in effect and men were almost minus on the campus. The school closed on Oct. 2, 1918 for the afternoon as everyone went downtown to hear Teddy Roosevelt speak on the interests of the Fourth Liberty Loan.

In addition to the great business opportunities and personal growth I have enjoyed as a result of my degree program, I recently received a significant promotion which will allow me to work in the role that I have desired for years, as well as travel the world!

The Kansas Wildlife Exhibit is thankful for the countless contributions from Friends University’s ConservationScience Program students. The partnership has been beneficial as Friends University Conservation Science students accomplish needed tasks in a short amount of time and student volunteers help with daily care, enrichment activities, and engage with the public. Students have made a lasting impression on the thousands of people who visit the KWE and follow along on social media. A Friends University student even started the KWE Instagram account.

Visit the Global MBA Graduate Program page to learn more about the Global MBA Graduate program.

I do not think I could make this journey without the amazing staff at Friends… The academic success coaches have been vital in helping me make wise decisions. They also truly care about my journey and are a constant source of encouragement and help.

I’ve always thought bigger than what’s around me and have had a strong urge to get out and see and do more. My broad liberal arts education at Friends helped me to think big, too. Friends is where I first learned to read music and begin to study my craft seriously. Being involved with the Singing Quakers and studying voice with Dr. David Weber fueled a passion for singing.

Friends University provided me the opportunity to explore and develop all facets of music while allowing me to pursue a jazz concentration in trombone performance. This was a great steppingstone to further my career as a full-time freelance musician and pursue a doctorate in jazz studies. I hope to teach jazz at the university level one day and share my passion for making music that enriches lives and helps others do the same.