Finding a Faith-Focused Education and So Much More
Grace Bruin has known about Ƶ her whole life, having had parents, grandparents, and teachers who attended Dordt. But what really sold her on attending was Dordt’s education program.
“I wanted to be in an education program that was founded and rooted in faith rather than having Christianity as an appendix to the program,” says Bruin. “It was clear from the first time I talked with Ƶeducation professors that they are passionate about Christian teaching.”
The education classes she has taken have been centered around teaching from a Christian perspective – “and that’s shaped the way I view my role as a future teacher and as an image-bearer of God.”
On top of studying K-12 art education, Bruin sings in Concert Choir, plays bassoon in Wind Symphony, has a minor in theatre arts, is part of the Theatre Company, actively involved in the Education Club and Art Club, co-president of the Theatre Club, and works in the theatre department scene shop.
“None of it feels like work, though,” she says.
She also has plenty of support. “I have had long chats with Dr. Mulder, Dr. De Groot, and Professor Mouw in the education department about what courses to take when, and what I can shuffle around to fit all my courses in,” she says. “Plus, my music and theatre directors have been willing to help and make things work so that I can do what I love, while also learning as much as I can.”
There are times when she feels overwhelmed; she’s learned to cling to prayer as a source of comfort.
“I’ve realized that prayer isn't limited to a devotional or specific intentional time with the Lord,” says Bruin. “It’s something that can be done from anywhere, anytime. My commute to class in the morning, the drive to the store, and a walk to the theatre building can all be spent with the Lord in prayer,” she says.
Dr. Dave Mulder, professor of education at Ƶ, has been encouraged by Bruin’s consistent dedication to excellence in her studies and activities. “She is a stellar student and involved in a lot on campus. And she’s doing it all at a high level,” says Mulder.
Bruin plans to use her experiences around campus after college, too.
“I hope that I can run a high school theatre company and be a director and teacher at a school,” says Bruin.
She’s confident that, no matter what her future looks like, being involved in so many different things will prepare her for her role in a school community outside of Dordt. “Teaching and acting both rely on communication and effort; both require long hours and extra effort. Also, my ensembles have taught me how to work as part of a team and to appreciate consistency.”
Bruin is grateful for what she has experienced at Dordt. “Being surrounded by professors and friends who are committed to living out God’s story has been so encouraging.”
