Chicago Semester

Student Testimonials

“Being in the city and doing my internship has helped me to grow in assertiveness and confidence. It has expanded my worldview and opened my mind and eyes to new things. As a social work student, this semester has brought to life the issues I’ve studied in school. It put faces to poverty and social disparity.”
–Jamie Barry, Calvin College

“Getting out of my small town and working with people from different backgrounds and beliefs caused me to evaluate who I am and what I believe.”
–Becky Ribbens, Dordt College

“I loved how Chicago Semester supported us, yet still gave us our independence.”
–Cora Wandell, Spring Arbor University

“Chicago Semester works hard to find a great internship site that fits you and what you want.”
–Andrea Stoit, Calvin College

“Coming from a small town, experiencing Chicago was an eye opening and rewarding experience. It was a good balance of everything from challenges with social issues to fun with new friends.”
–Merribeth Van Engen, Dordt College

“Student teaching in Chicago looks amazing on a resume. Administrators look at you and say, ‘You taught in inner-city Chicago??? Tell me about that!’ "
–Kristin Erickson, Northwestern College

“I loved living in Chicago! The Chicago Semester students I lived with became my family and we had so many adventures in the city together.”
–Peter Kolb, Northwestern College

“You get a head start before graduation in honing professional skill, adding to a portfolio, defining what you want in a career, and developing job leads.”
–Joanna VanderWoude, Trinity Christian College

“The best semester I’ve had in college!”
-Jeff De Wild, Dordt College

“If you want a good time, new experiences, and exciting challenges—go to Chicago!”
–Kate Carpenter, Trinity Christian College

“I loved the practical experience Chicago Semester provides. You not only learn about the city, but you learn more about yourself too.”
–Michael Holleman, Central College

“I have learned how to apply my academic knowledge to my career and workplace.”
–Anna Kate Bestland-Raines, Luther College

“I fell in love with teaching in a diverse, urban setting.”
–Sarah Wilson, Central College

“This semester helped me clarify my career goals, and my internship experience reinforced that I am on the right path.”
–Kimberly Monsma, Trinity Christian College

“I learned a lot about diversity, social justice issues, my professional career, and urban ministries, and I love it all!”
–Nate DeGraaf, Dordt College

“I learned how to function in a big city and feel comfortable and safe.”
–Jess Bareman, Calvin College

“I learned how to truly live on my own in an environment that is different from what I am used to.”
–Chris Lewis, Hope College