Alumni of the Romanian Studies Program often describe their experience as “life-changing.” More than just a simple cliché, these alumni have been shaped by their experiences in Romania which helped them choose their professions today.
Alumni quotes:
“Personally and spiritually, RSP impacted me by showing me God’s work and love outside of my home country. It was a great experience to learn and witness the Church in a different culture and country, yet still feeling familiar and like home. No matter where you go in the world, God’s church will always be there to make you feel at home.” Lindsey Shoemaker – Olivet Nazarene University, Fall 2015
“During my time abroad, I was most impacted by the people that I worked alongside with. The leadership staff at Veritas had an overwhelming passion for serving and loving all people through the power of Christ. I was inspired by the amount of self-sacrifice that was evident throughout the numerous programs.” Marga DeJongh – Hope College, Fall 2013
“I will always remember the smiles on the children’s faces when the Kids’ Club program would begin each day. I loved the enthusiasm of the children when they heard they had an opportunity to learn something new.” Matthew Cuppett – MidAmerica Nazarene University, Spring 2012
“Studying abroad allows you to learn about yourself from a new perspective, and doing it in an immersion program pushes that exploration to the next level.” Alex Hedgpeth – Asbury College, Fall 2009
“As a school psychologist, I work with people from every culture and ethnicity. My time in Romania increased my sensitivity to cultural differences.” Nikki Classen – Olivet Nazarene University, Fall 2003
“I continue to keep in touch with my Romanian host family who I consider to be part of my own family. They took good care of me and treated me like I was their daughter and sister. I feel so blessed to know them.” Kelly Taylor – Eastern Nazarene College, Spring 2001
“I learned to be the hands and feet of Jesus and truly encounter Jesus among the poor.” Sarah Rozga Thibault – Eastern Nazarene College, Spring-Summer 2000
“I was able to combine my calling to missions with my social work skills in a way that impacted not only the people we served but my own life and future career path.” Elizabeth Patterson – Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Fall 1999
“As a business student, the opportunity to work in a developing economy was invaluable. By working hands-on with local entrepreneurs starting up their first business ventures, I gained real-world experience that I would’ve never gotten from a traditional classroom.” Jeremy Peach – Trevecca Nazarene University, Fall 1995