şÚÁĎłÔąĎ

Category: Blog

130 Stories: Geraldine Debeuf

“As a French student studying abroad for a year, I learned so much at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ, about peopleĚýandĚýabout myself.”

łŇ±đ°ů˛ą±ô»ĺľ±˛Ô±đĚýDebeuf, C’10, ISEP Program, FranceĚý

“As a French student studying abroad for a year, I learned so much at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ, about people and about myself. My favorite memories at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ were Halloween on Campus (we don’t celebrate it much in France), dances at Navy Pier, Spanish classes with Cherie Meacham, and basketball games . . . So many great memories!Ěý

“North Park is special to me because the staff, the teachers, and the students are all the nicest people! And Chicago is a wonderful city that will be in my heart forever. My husband and I had our first baby last November, and I really hope she can have an experience abroad like I did at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ because I know she won’t regret it!”Ěý


We’re celebrating 130 years of North Park community. You’re invited to share your own story at

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130 Stories: Sandy Nelson

“The Sweden Exchange Program with SVF in Jönköping, Sweden—August, 1983 to March, 1984—was the most influential time of my years at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ.”

Sandy Nelson, C’85, Art

“The Sweden Exchange Program with SVF in Jönköping, Sweden—August, 1983 to March, 1984—was the most influential time of my years at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ. In addition to making lifelong friends, the experience of living in Sweden really opened my eyes and mind to the ways other cultures live, and ways that might be better than the systems we have in the USA. Other travels to Greece, the Soviet Union, and around Europe while I was on the exchange program, as well as a mission trip to Haiti during one spring break, were also extremely valuable and enlightening.

“Along with those incredible experiences and the opportunities from living in the wonderful city of Chicago, it was special to be on a small campus where you really get to know people of all ages, including professors. I loved it when I realized that so many of my friends were the children of people that my folks knew or went to North Park with—the generational connections were unbelievable! Now many of my North Park friends have kids attending North Park. I hope it’s still that way when my daughter is college-age.”


We’re celebrating 130 years of North Park community. You’re invited to share your own story at

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130 Stories: Nicholas Canete

“Dr. John Laukaitis shared with me a 70-year-old bronze plaque discovered in the University Archives. It was inscribed with the names of students and alumni of North Park who were killed during service in World War II.”

Nicholas Jordon Canete, C’18,ĚýPolitics and Government

man and baby smile while sitting on living room sofa.“When I met Dr. John Laukaitis, he had been researching and writing about şÚÁĎłÔąĎ and other Christian colleges during World War II. He shared with me a 70-year-old bronze plaque discovered in the University Archives. It was inscribed with the names of students and alumni of North Park who were killed during service in World War II. I thought it was important that the plaque be restored and re-installed to honor those fallen students and alumni. As a student veteran and an heir of the GI Bill, I saw the project as a way to give back to a generation that came before me.ĚýĚýĚý

“Interim President Carl Balsam made the process of restoring the plaque very easy. He generously took care of the refurbishment of the plaque and had it re-installed in a quiet space on campus near the river. Once it was re-installed, we had a small gathering of prayer, and we read General MacArthur’s Tokyo Bay speech.Ěý

“Both of these gentlemen love North Park very deeply. The three of us are also lifelong students of history. It was great collaborating with them to recognize theĚýFallen 45. The most memorable part of the project was the re-dedication ceremony we hosted on September 17, 2017. More than 50 individuals attended to pay tribute. This permanently etched theĚýFallen 45Ěýinto our shared history.


We’re celebrating 130 years of North Park community. You’re invited to share your own story at

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130 Stories: Elaine Scheelk

“I made a later in life career change into the Senior Living industry, and I credit my time visiting my “Grandpa Pete” at Covenant Home with preparing me for a career that inspires me daily.”

Elaine Scheelk, C’92, Biblical and Theological Studies

“The Adopt-a-Grandparent program that I participated in for outreach has impacted me in ways I never expected. I made a later in life career change into the Senior Living industry, and I credit my time visiting my “Grandpa Pete” at Covenant Home with preparing me for a career that inspires me daily.

“Grandpa Pete was a lifelong bachelor and ran the elevator at the old Covenant Home (so he could see all the ladies). He was a tall man who gave big hugs and always offered to buy ice cream or to give you a piece of candy. We spent much of our time together walking and talking or just sitting and visiting. He would introduce me to other residents as his “adopted granddaughter.”

“Grandpa Pete took away some of my own fear of growing old. When you asked him how he was doing he invariably replied, “fit as a fiddle and ready for love.” I knew that I wanted to have that kind of zest for life as I aged. Now in my work, I look for opportunities to give more seniors and their families joy in their later years.

“North Park gave me urban experiences with a small community as home base. Now, as I travel between nearly 40 senior living communities, I am more at ease in whatever city or area I am visiting. I didn’t realize the passion that I had for seniors during my college years, but God was cultivating that passion even back then.”


We’re celebrating 130 years of North Park community. You’re invited to share your own story at

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130 Stories: Denise Fuentes

The day I picked up my cap and gown was magical. It was the middle of the pandemic, but I took a half day at work and drove to the city with my parents.

Denise Fuentes, G’20, MBA

“The day I picked up my cap and gown was magical. It was the middle of the pandemic, but I took a half day at work and drove to the city with my parents. I am a first-generation college student and the first in my family to obtain a graduate level degree. It was really special to share that moment with my parents. When I spoke with Tanya in Student Services, I think I cried. We took pictures and, of course, stopped at the bookstore for more NPU swag.

“My MBA program was already virtual, so the pandemic didn’t drastically change my experience, but it did give me more time to dedicate to my studies. Finance and numbers are not my strong suit, so I reached out to my professors for additional resources and support. The advice and perspectives they shared have really stuck with me.”


We’re celebrating 130 years of North Park community. You’re invited to share your own story:

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130 Stories: President Mary K. Surridge

This academic year marks the 130th anniversary of the founding of şÚÁϳԹϖand one of the ways we will celebrate is by sharing 130 stories of North Park students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Stories of our community, across generations, academic fields, staff departments, professions, and faith journeys.

This academic year marks the 130th anniversary of the founding of şÚÁϳԹϖand one of the ways we will celebrate is by sharing 130 stories of North Park students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Stories of our community, across generations, academic fields, staff departments, professions, and faith journeys.

You’re invited to watch this video, and to join in the celebration by sharing your own story here: www.northpark.edu/share130/

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Stations of the Cross

This video was curated by the School of Restorative Arts redemptive storytelling cohort (re)story in collaboration with seminary alumnae Alicia Reese and Cheryl Lynn Cain.

Stations of the Cross: This video was curated by the School of Restorative Arts redemptive storytelling cohort (re)story in collaboration with seminary alumnae Alicia Reese and Cheryl Lynn Cain.

As we enter Holy Week isolated, alone, and confined to our homes, could there be a better time to reflect upon the modern day equivalent of the cross and the experiences of those who know it best. Join us in this journey through the Stations of the Cross and the stories of those who sit closest to where Jesus would be if Good Friday were today.

We thank all the friends and faculty of the School of Restorative Arts who took the time to give voice to these stories, Pastor Cheryl Lynn Cain and Pastor Alicia Reese for compiling this resource. And we thank Jess Fogel for production and editing.

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Top Ten Ways to Survive—and Thrive—During Freshman Year of College

Transitioning into college can often be difficult, scary, and stressful—here are sophomore Macayla Dowling’s top ten recommendations for making the most of your first year.

Top Ten Ways to Survive—and Thrive­—During Freshman Year of College

A blog post by North Park Sophomore Macayla Dowling

Transitioning into college can often be difficult, scary, and stressful—especially if you are moving far away from home. Last year, I moved seven hours away from my small, rural community; needless to say, Chicago’s urban lifestyle was a major change for me. While my first year at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ was one of the most trying years of my life, it was also one of the most successful years of my life. That said, here are my top ten recommendations for surviving—and even thriving—during your first year as a college student.

A young woman standing on a park pathway with the Chicago skyline behind her.

1. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone

Moving so far away from home and everything I have ever known was a huge leap out of my comfort zone, but I would not change it for the world. My first few weeks at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ were awfully difficult, but pushing myself beyond what I found comfortable led to a year full of growth and life-changing experiences, which, I’ve come to realize, is exactly what college is all about. Seize every opportunity that comes to you—especially the ones outside of your comfort zone. Try new things and attend events you do not typically see yourself participating in because you might end up finding something that you really enjoy or making new friends!

2. Stay organized

Assignments and activities tend to build up quickly; the best way to keep everything under control is to stay organized. I find keeping separate folders, notebooks, or binders for each class really helps me keep track of everything. I never felt the need in high school to keep an academic planner because my assignments were easy to remember. As a college student, my philosophy has completely changed; I would be so lost without my planner. Recording everything—such as upcoming assignments and meetings—in an academic planner or your phone calendar is an extremely helpful way to stay on top of things.

3. Get involved with programs, teams, and clubs

My first semester at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ I participated in the Catalyst program, where I met so many friendly people and learned a lot about Chicago. I even found something I was passionate about through my practicum. Fortunately, North Park offers an abundance of ways to get involved on campus. Programs—such as Catalyst, CRUX, or COMPASS—are perfect opportunities to build close relationships and engage in the city of Chicago. Joining sports teams, intramurals, and clubs are also great for meeting new people while pursuing interests. In order to enhance your college experience, I highly recommend getting involved with at least one organization.

Four young women smiling while riding a water taxi, downtown Chicago

4. Go to class, take notes, and don’t procrastinate

I found that one of the best ways to succeed in classes is to actually attend them. Although going to class may become tedious (especially near the end of the semester), it is still important to be present. Taking notes in class benefits me greatly when it comes to essays and exams, but notes can only be taken while attending class. Another tip for success is to procrastinate as little as possible; I attempt to get assignments done early because it guarantees that they will be turned in on time and allows more time for fun or relaxing because I’m not stressing out about assignments.

5. Attend campus events

Campus events help break the monotony of classes and assignments, so I always keep an eye out for fliers posted around campus. From Catalyst on Campus to the Cram Jam (my personal favorite), North Park hosts tons of events throughout the year. Attending campus events is another good way to meet new people, hang out with friends, or even learn something new. The best part about campus events is that they typically provide some type of free food, which is every college student’s ultimate dream.

6. Get a job

Let’s face it, college students aren’t exactly the wealthiest demographic; fortunately, there are numerous jobs available both on and off campus. During my second semester, I found that I had huge gaps in my schedule and decided that getting a job would be an incredibly productive way to fill those gaps. I constantly searched Career Hub and found a position as a student writer for University Marketing and Communications. As an English major, I really enjoy my job and found that working with UMC has provided me with beneficial work experience and has especially strengthened my writing skills.

7. Dedicate time to have fun

During the week, I work diligently, but I always reward myself by declaring Saturday a homework free day. I often find myself getting ice cream, discovering new things in the city, or playing board games with friends. College is often stressful, but that does not mean that it cannot be fun; it’s all about finding the perfect balance between productivity and excitement. Don’t don’t be afraid to set aside time each week to do something that makes you happy.

Four young women holding ice cream desserts in a small shop.

8. Keep in touch with your friends and family

Every day, I make sure to at least text my friends and family to let them know that I am thinking of them no matter the distance between us. Maintaining relationships with people from home is just as important as establishing new relationships at school, because while your new transition may be difficult for you, odds are that it is also difficult for them. No matter how busy you are, be sure to connect with your friends and family at least once a week to update them on how you’re doing and find out what’s going on back at home.

9. Explore the city

My heart was set on Chicago while searching for where to further my education, so when I got to North Park, I utilized my newfound freedom to begin exploring. Whether it be through one of the programs that şÚÁĎłÔąĎ offers or with friends, get to know the city you live in. No two neighborhoods in Chicago are the same, making it an excellent city to immerse yourself in different cultures. It seems as if there is always an event happening somewhere; not to mention, there is a plethora of free activities to enjoy and over 7,300 restaurants to try. When using your Ventra card and Google Maps, the possibilities are endless!

10. Relax

I have noticed that I always feel like I need to be doing something productive, so I often need to remind myself to take a breather. Sometimes college can feel like a tremendous balancing act between classes, assignments, social life, and extracurricular activities. While it is important to focus on all of those, it is also vital to your health to incorporate time to yourself into the mix. Know that it’s okay to watch Netflix or take a much-needed nap from time to time. Make sure you are allowing yourself to relax after working hard; you deserve it!

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Advice for Move-in Day

Tips from current students for your first move-in day.

North Park students all have different experiences while moving in. As part of North Park culture, all of your RAs and some other current students will be on the curb to greet you with sweaty t-shirts and smiling faces. They’re just as excited about moving in as you are, and they’ll help you get all of your things into your new room.

Here are some comments from people around campus who recall the first time they moved in and want to give you an advantage they didn’t have before moving in:

  • “Get a mini-fridge. It will keep your drinks cold and give you more versatile options for snacking.” – Male, Class of 2019
  • “Don’t over-pack; and be nice to your parents, they’re really trying to help.” – Female, Class of 2018
  • “Box fans, box fans, box fans.” – Male, Class of 2018
  • “Organize your belongings in boxes while moving out of your house, that way you know where everything is once you move in.” – Female, Class of 2018
  • “You don’t need everything you think you need.” – Male, Class of 2018
  • “Don’t be afraid to leave your door open to invite people in.” – Male, Class of 2019
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A Day in the Life at şÚÁĎłÔąĎ

What a day is like for a North Park student.

8 am: Alarm

It’s the second day of class. We had our introduction exercises in our first class, and the syllabus was presented too. We won’t be wasting any more time; the real deal starts today. My roommate comes in sweaty; of course, they woke up to meet the gym as it opened. Maybe you’ll get a roommate like that too.

10 am: Coffee

Starbucks or Einstein’s Bagels & Co.? Luckily neither is a difficult choice as the former is across the street and the latter in the Johnson Center. I prefer the snack variety at Einstein’s.

12 pm: Lunchin’

I ordered ahead of time to get my pack lunch at Einstein’s, it does cost a meal swipe, but this way I can sit outside or find a quiet spot in the Johnson Center to call my family, because they call. Every. Single. Day.

60625 is one of the nation’s most diverse zip codes. More than 40 languages are spoken in the neighborhood’s schools, with the area having one of the highest percentages of foreign-born residents among Chicago neighborhoods.ĚýYou’ll learn a lot from these neighbors, whether through a class trip to Chicago’s World Relief office, participating in an internship at a local nonprofit, worshiping with a neighborhood congregation, or visiting area businesses and restaurants.

2 pm: Catalyst 606__

Some of my friends already have their Catalyst class session now. There are two every semester per afternoon class. I’ve got one of mine next week. We’ve got U-Passes, that means we have unlimited travel on the CTA, Chicago’s train and bus systems, so Millennium Park here we come. We can still explore the city without the class.

6 pm: ARA

Back on campus, everyone calls the campus dining hall “ARA”, it’s infiltrated my use as well. It takes up almost the entire second floor of Magnuson.

8 pm: “Pogo if you love North Park”

Yep, that’s one of the chants at the men’s soccer game. The stands are full and everyone is jumping on one leg with a shoe raised in the air. There are some people at the base of the stands shouting and heckling the other team, in good fun; we joined them for a bit. Why not?

10 pm: Cookie Monster

Some of the returning students want to take us to Insomnia Cookies. It’s off the Fullerton stop and, apparently, the North Parker place to go on a weeknight. There is sleep, but this is college, so…

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