Like so many SEU students before her, Reina Medina’s journey at SEU defies what she had always heard as the typical college narrative. From the moment she stepped on campus, she found herself immersed in an environment where spirited classroom debates, personal devotion, and creative energy coexisted to fuel both her mind and her soul. SEU quickly became a canvas for her growth — a place where every discussion, mentorship moment, and shared experience deepened her sense of belonging and ignited her passion for making a meaningful impact.
A Personalized, Faith-Integrated Learning Experience
Reina chose SEU because she longed for an environment where she could ask questions freely and engage in genuine discussions. The small class sizes allowed her to connect with her professors one-on-one. In every lecture, lab, and workshop, her classes seamlessly wove academic rigor with spiritual reflection. Many courses began with devotionals, setting a tone that reinforced the integration of faith and education. As a business major, Reina found that her professors used real-world topics — like ethical responsibility, labor practices, fair wages, and consumerism — to illustrate how Christian values can guide both professional and personal decisions.
Real-World Application and Academic Support
Beyond the classroom, Reina’s academic journey is enriched by practical experiences. She’s already benefiting from a practicum which allows her to apply classroom insights directly to her current workplace. This hands-on approach alleviates the pressure of balancing school and work while reinforcing the SEU learning model, where students truly grasp and implement their lessons. This experience has helped her feel prepared for the internship that her major requires in her upcoming senior year, as she anticipates graduation in 2027.
Her academic advising experience has been transformative as well. Initially unsure about what to take on, Reina was encouraged by her advisor to expand her horizons. After a thorough review of her strengths, she confidently pursued a double major in Management and Marketing — fields that combine creativity with practical business skills. Complementary support through tutoring sessions, free textbooks, and study nights has further bolstered her skills, especially in subjects she finds to be challenging, such as like math.
Financial Support and a Secure Environment
Feeling secure about both her faith and education was essential to what Reina wanted in her college experience. Early on, her proactive engagement with SEU’s admission team, particularly her enrollment counselor Chris Bryant, made all the difference. By applying early and maintaining consistent communication, she built a strong relationship with the team. This dedication was rewarded when she secured 95 percent scholarship coverage, including the endowed Trustee Scholarship from her Assemblies of God district — ensuring that her academic dreams were attainable without taking on student loans. This experience reinforced her belief that at SEU, every student is supported in all aspects of their journey.
Building Community on Campus
Reina’s journey at SEU is as much about community as it is about academics. The First Year Experience team provided her with ample opportunities to connect with fellow students, easing her transition into college life. The Steelman library quickly became her sanctuary — a space offering varied study environments, from open tables to private rooms, alongside fun events like scavenger hunts and movie nights.
Moreover, her student worker position with the university’s marketing department, SEU Creative, has allowed her to merge classroom theory with practical digital marketing work. Working in a role that respects her student schedule, Reina gains invaluable insight into her field while contributing to SEU’s marketing initiatives.
Nurturing Spiritual Growth and Overcoming Challenges
Regular chapel services and inspiring guest speakers have provided Reina with moments of reflection and community worship. Her involvement in House groups — SEU’s small groups that provide an opportunity to dive deeper into scripture, have fun, and connect — has deepened her relationships and built a supportive network that extends well beyond campus.
Reina embarked on her SEU journey while processing significant personal challenges. During her early days at campus, while bravely caring for her father during his courageous battle with ALS, Reina experienced a profound loss just weeks before move-in day. In that vulnerable time, Student Outreach Services (SOS) provided gentle and compassionate support by connecting her with mental health counseling and additional resources. This caring intervention, alongside the prayers and encouragement of her professors, helped Reina navigate her grief with sensitivity and strength, honoring her father’s legacy while continuing her educational journey.
A Passion for Impact and Creativity
Embracing the role of a first-generation student, Reina has become a beacon of resilience and inspiration. As the social media chair for the First-Gen club, she actively supports others who are forging their own paths and overcoming obstacles.
Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her small business, Bluejay’s Vintage, where she sells new and vintage clothing, accessories, and hand-crafted items. Every pop-up shop and sale not only fuels her creative expression but also supports missionary work and her home church’s fine arts ministry. Reina has been able to take advantage of SEU’s Market Day, where students can showcase their small businesses on campus.
A Home to Belong
From personalized learning and robust financial support to a vibrant community and a nurturing spiritual environment, Reina Medina’s journey at SEU embodies the true essence of belonging. Her story is a strong reminder that at SEU, every student is seen, supported, and empowered to grow. Through every lecture, mentorship session, community event, and personal challenge, Reina has found more than an education — she’s found a home where she is poised to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Decision Day is May 1!
So, why not join students like Reina and expand your horizons with SEU, too? Visit SEU.edu/withSEU to take your next steps and discover more about how you Belong with SEU.
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