When I look back at my time at Hope, I know I will always treasure spending the past four Octobers participating in the Nykerk Cup Competition. This tradition has been nothing short of magical. I was a part of Even Year Song as an underclassman, and was honored to serve as the 85th Nykerk General Chair this past fall. I learned so much from Rachel, Ellen, Katelyn, and the rest of our stellar committees about how to lead with grace and kindness, and am thankful to Nykerk for teaching me to believe in myself and to share that newfound confidence with others. Nykerk has given me some of my best friends, and it was a joy to be able to give back in such a special way.
Cindy Nguyen
It is extremely hard to choose one memory or moment after 4 years, however one thing that I am extremely grateful for are the professors and staff who have guided and encouraged me to strive for my best. The opportunity to do research at Hope not only boosted my confidence in my classes, but validated my academic abilities. As I continue on to grad school next year, I owe so much to my research advisors, staff and professors for helping me set a firm foundation that I can only build upon in the next coming years.
LauraGrace Orner
My favorite memory has hands down been participating in Even Year Pull, first as a morale and then as a coach. As a freshman, the team gave me a home when my old one was hundreds of miles away. It was an honor to coach two underclassmen teams and show them the ropes of a tradition that has meant the world to me. Even this year, when all hope seemed lost due to the flooded Black River, the campus rallied around us to ensure that The Pull lived on. The people that I met through this experience will be friends for a lifetime. I will always be grateful for the rope and for the family it has gifted me.