I’m Kyrsten Nolan, and I’m a senior here at Grace Christian University, studying Criminal Justice.
When I first started thinking about college, I’ll be honest, sports were a big factor for me. But what really drew me to Grace was its faith-based education. I loved that I could grow in my relationship with Christ while preparing for my future career. Grace has given me a space to bring faith into my everyday life, and that’s something I’ll always value.
Learn, Grow, Serve
The theme of Learn, Grow, Serve has become personal to me during my time here. Grace has helped me develop who I am as a person, beyond academics or athletics. I’ve learned what it means to serve others, and I’ve discovered how my career in criminal justice can be more than a job, it can be a way to serve my future community.
The Criminal Justice Program
If someone asked me about joining the Criminal Justice program at Grace, I’d tell them it’s absolutely worth it. It’s exciting and hands-on. We go on field trips, meet with officers, and really get to see what life in this field looks like.
I’ve had the chance to make real connections, meeting professionals in law enforcement and even former students who come back to speak in our classes. Those relationships have opened doors to internships and cadet opportunities that give us real-world experience before we even graduate.
Earning a college degree means more than just getting a job, it’s about growing in knowledge and confidence. For me, it’s about being prepared to handle whatever situations come my way, both in my career and in life. Grace has given me that foundation.
Becoming Who God Calls You to Be
My time here has also shaped who I’m becoming on a personal level. Before coming to Grace, I didn’t realize how much my community mattered. The friendships and mentors I’ve found here have made me kinder, stronger, and more resilient. Grace has surrounded me with people who genuinely care, and that’s changed the way I see the world.
When I think about people who’ve made an impact on me, Todd immediately comes to mind. He’s one of those people who’s always upbeat and positive, no matter what’s happening. I really admire that about him, and I hope I can learn to approach each day the same way, with that kind of joy and perspective.
If I could swap places with anyone at Grace for a day, it would probably be Dr. Shaw. He’s just got so much going on all the time and always seems to be involved in something interesting. I think spending a day in his shoes would be fascinating.
Just for Fun
And because no college day is complete without coffee, my go-to order is an iced caramel latte. If I’m studying, you’ll probably find me snacking on popcorn or something easy to munch on. Starbucks is usually my spot, it’s simple, consistent, and keeps me going through late-night study sessions.
The Grace Impact
Grace Christian University is giving me more than a degree, it’s giving me growth, community, and purpose. I’ve learned that education isn’t only about books and classes, it’s about learning who you are, growing through faith, and finding ways to serve others along the way.
Through it all, I’ve discovered what it means to become a Courageous Ambassador for Christ, someone equipped to make an eternal impact in every part of life.
