Lauren Helfer

Liberal Studies, Elementary Education, B.A. '17

My program taught me not only terminology and theories, but the practical application excellent educators need.

How did your program at Biola prepare you for your career?

My program taught me not only terminology and theories, but the practical application excellent educators need. The professors are incredibly supportive as we learn to teach, as are our master teachers. Both groups have become mentors to me.

What did you appreciate most about your time at Biola?

I greatly appreciated the community of likeminded individuals pursuing the same career course as I am pursuing. Truly, the women I learned alongside have become sisters to me and our professors have become mentors and friends to us, not only instilling in us the disciplines needed to be excellent educators, but also directing us to Christ in all things.

How did Biola equip you to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ?

Biola equipped me to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ in several ways. Truly, Biola is focused on having its students learn to think biblically about everything. Because of this, Biola is a cut above other universities. The biblical integration across the curriculum helps us to apply biblical thinking to every situation, no matter the context. The Bible classes equipped me with deeper knowledge of the Scriptures, while our professors modeled what it looks like to follow Christ. We often try to do things in our own power, but Christ calls us to live in His power. Through my time at Biola, I learned that excellent educators not only teach their students many things, but also love their students as children who bear the image of God. I have learned the importance of praying for my students and living out Scripture in the classroom.

What advice would you give to students considering your degree program?

Pray for your cooperating teachers, your students, and the school's administration. Be light! Pray throughout the day, asking the Holy Spirit to minister to your class even through the moments that seem chaotic to you. Don't just see your students as receivers of academic knowledge. Be prepared for a lot of work, but to be richly blessed by your professors and well equipped to teach.