Owen Yoder grew up in a small community in North Collins, New York. He decided to check out Geneva College after hearing stories about it from his older siblings; Katherine, a 2018 grad and Joel, a current student. Owen’s siblings told him about how professors care for their students. To quote his sister Katherine from a 2017 interview, “[Professors] get to know us and care about us personally. The have incredible knowledge but also humility – they are willing to listen to what we have to say. Each of the professors models their faith in the classroom in unique ways. Every subject is studied through the lens of Christianity, and every student is encouraged to pursue excellence.”  

While hearing about the professors was important to Owen, what convinced him was seeing his brother changed for the better at Geneva. “Joel and I are pretty similar, so I knew if he like it, I probably would too… Every time Joel came home on breaks, I would see changes in him.” Joel was talking about his faith more and thinking critically about the world. He was expressing more complex opinions. Owen knew that these changes stemmed from Joel’s classmates and professors and he wanted the same for himself.  

In coming to Geneva, Owen has found that community his siblings talked about. His floor has made an impact on him, in more than a surface level way. When asked about the atmosphere in Pearce Hall, he says, “The community is fabulous.” The basement, honors, floor is a lively place. Most everybody has their doors open and everyone is in each other’s rooms.” Being part of the First-Year Honors Program has stretched Owen to do longer and more difficult readings.  “My friend group is very helpful; we pray and talk about our problems. They are very encouraging.

Owen came to campus three weeks early for Marching Band and immediately made friends. Though an introvert, he “pushed” himself to eat with people and is thankful for how friendly everyone has been. Overall, Owen would say food in the dining hall is pretty good, except for one dish that doesn’t come close to his mom’s cooking: Mac-and-Cheese. “My mom’s is the best.”

Owen is not completely sure what major he will end up with. He is currently studying Engineering, but after meeting with Dr. Stahl, is considering changing his major to secondary education focusing on chemistry.

~Annie Dawson 2020