Years ago, I wrote “attend a TED talk” down on my bucket list. Little did I know that in 2025, I’d be giving my own talk at TEDxHopeCollege. It was during my freshman year, when I first attended TEDxHopeCollege. I’ve always loved watching TED talks online–the diverse range of topics and engaging speakers always pique …
Category Archives: Student Life
Why Hope is Unique: Embodying Mentorship Instead of Direction
When I was touring colleges, I visited several liberal arts and Christian schools. Among these schools were some that mandate chapel attendance, require student faith statements, avoid a core curriculum, and impede studying abroad. These examples give a very specific direction to students. Although these aspects can have positive impacts, such as a stable Christian …
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First-Year Experiences: Fun Stories & Lessons Learned
Whenever I go home now, I inevitably get asked the same questions: “How is college going?” and “How has the transition been?” Thankfully, college has been lovely and the transition felt very natural. However, just because the transition was smooth, does not mean that my experiences as a first-year student have been uneventful. Orientation All …
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My Experience Getting Involved as a Freshman
Before moving to Hope College as a freshman, I hesitated because my dream was to be at a big school in a city. Growing up in the capital of Afghanistan, I loved the busyness and energy of city life. But moving to Holland opened a new perspective for me. I have no regrets, and I …
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Notes on a New Semester
The days between Christmas and New Years are some of my favorites. I love the anticipation of a fresh start, the inclination to take inventory and set goals, and the hope of a new year lingering in the near future. At the same time, coming back for spring semester can be hard. Christmas break isn’t …
Snow Days at Hope College: The Beauty of Childlike Joy
Growing up in west Michigan, snow days were pure magic. I still remember the apprehension before a big storm. My brothers and I would flush ice cubes down the toilet, wear our pajamas inside out, and put potatoes next to our alarm clocks… all in hopes of school getting called off. And, let’s be honest, …
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Playing Volleyball as a Non-student-Athlete and Why I Love It
I began playing Volleyball as an elementary schooler and quickly fell in love with the sport, which I played throughout high school as well. I came to Hope College with the plan not only to attend official games, but also to continue playing, although I was unsure in what capacity and how. Volleyball Club To …
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How to Survive and Thrive in Winter at Hope College!
You know you’re in Michigan when the weather goes from summer to winter faster than you can say “pumpkin spice latte.” Coming from a warm country, I can confirm: Holland, Michigan, is cold. When I moved here in August, downtown Holland, with its beach and the beautiful campus, was thriving in green and colorful hues. …
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Navigating Chronic Illness as a Hope Student
One of my favorite parts about being a student blogger is having the opportunity to reflect at the end of every semester. In past posts I’ve focused on what my classes, friendships, or job have taught me over the course of sixteen weeks. This semester for me, though, turned out to be a little… unconventional. …
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Transformed by Hope
Starting college is like diving into an ocean of possibilities. For me, Hope College wasn’t just a place to learn—it was a transformative experience, reshaping how I see myself and the world. From the diverse community to unexpected challenges, every step has been about growth. Here’s a peek into what “Transformed by Hope” has meant …