A lot has changed at Union Adventist University over the last 135 years, including our name. But some things have remained remarkably consistent: rigorous academics, a commitment to service and students who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and work.
One difference? In 1891, students were expected to do chores for at least an hour every day for free. Nowadays, we pay them. But the value of the experience goes far beyond a paycheck.
Again and again, alumni tell us not all the lessons they use in their careers were learned in a classroom. Their mentors in on-campus employment taught them punctuality, diligence, leadership, professionalism, attention to detail, communication, problem solving and so many other skills.
That experience matters. Union students don’t just graduate with a degree; they leave with real-world skills and the confidence to put them to work. It’s one reason our graduates are sought after by employers.
Student employment also makes a Union education more affordable. Students earn money they can put toward college expenses while doing essential work that would otherwise require additional full-time employees. Their contributions help us hold down costs and keep tuition lower for everyone.
For this special Union Adventist University issue of OUTLOOK, we asked our colleagues across campus to nominate superlative workers. The students featured here were far from the only ones— they were simply the first four.
That says something about the students who chose Union.
Across our campus, students are learning and earning every day. They are creating a better campus while gaining the experience that will make them valuable employees and leaders ready to make a difference wherever God leads.
Dr. Yami Bazan is president of Union Adventist University.
