"Through my relationships here at PLNU, I have been challenged to grow in ways that are beyond my thinking four years ago. Who would have thought I would graduate with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Work, after living in LA and working downtown with at-risk youth (one summer); after living in the "ghetto" of City Heights, San Diego, and working with a church plant to assess the community (another summer); after questioning the very foundation I thought was so solid (my faith in God)? The Sociology and Social Work department provided me with opportunities which have shaped me, and will walk with me wherever I go! PLNU has provided me with an environment which fosters questioning, growth, and a foundation for the future! (There is also a great Sociology and Social Work Club—"Club Sociality" – friendship, fun, and learning!)"

Nichole Shirbourn
Class of 1999

"The Sociology Department at PLNU has had a tremendous impact in developing the way I view social interaction from a Christian perspective. The availability of Professors and the strong sense of community among students have made my educational experience a rewarding one that will last me a lifetime.

Mark C. Sanchez
Class of 1999
 
"The professors in the Sociology department have been an incredible source of support to me. Their encouragement and wealth of knowledge and experience has opened my eyes to a world in need of compassion and justice. They are nurturing in students the passion to think deeper, to seek truth, even if that means moving beyond classroom walls.

The field trips offered through the Sociology department open up a whole new world in our own country, or abroad.

Last but not least, Dr. Conklin makes great cream puffs and Dr. Benefiel tears it up on the piano!

Charisma Agonoy (3^rd year Junior, 1999)
 

A Journey in Time: December 29, 1997 Diary notes:

"After dinner most of the students went to bed. Some of us stayed behind then Dr. Conklin suggested that we go for a walk (a walk through the streets of Jerusalem during the late hours of the evening? I thought). The two and a half hour walk turned out to be spectacular! I was soon overwhelmed by a sense of awe and wonder. After 6 minutes of walking we arrived at the Old City. Once inside its walls I found that I had traveled back in time several hundred if not thousands of years. The narrow streets, walkways, alleys, the dark corners and maze-like setting of the city were all incredible. Without a doubt the most spectacular sight was that of the Western/Wailing Wall. At the sight of the wall I became extremely overwhelmed by a sense of awe and respect. One could quickly notice the Orthodox Jews praying at the wall. What I had always seen on news reports and newspapers I was now seeing with my very own eyes. I shed some tears. We approached the wall I made a prayer, the content of which I will always remember. We then visited the sight of Jesus’ burial. I could not believe it!! It was great to know that the tomb was empty!! Soon we returned to the hotel. It was the best evening walk of my entire life."

Jesus' Herrera
Alumni Class of 1998

"Taking the Sociology special studies class on Israel was one of the opportunities at Point Loma that I'm glad I didn't miss. The classroom time we had before taking the trip was so informative and interesting. We had discussions on history and politics, watched slides of former trips, and even tasted typical foods from the Middle East. Dr. Conklin and Professor Smith had some great dialogues in class and were very obvious in their passion for Israel and its people. And of course, the actual trip was incredible. The guides we had were unbeatable; they knew everything, it seemed. They were so willing to engage students in conversation and answer questions. If anyone has ever considered visiting the Middle East, I would encourage that they take this opportunity now. I guarantee that this is the BEST way to discover all Israel has to offer.

Amy Norris
Alumni Class of 1998

Urban Term student serve externships in the inner city of San Diego. Some interesting quotes from students serving were:
"I had no idea there was so much evil in the world and that I was so close to it. "I'm trying to understand why I didn't even know that this life could happen, and it is only 10 minutes away from Point Loma, where I am living my perfect life." Allison Branchaud
 
"It's easy while you are in college to say I am going to give all my money away to the poor. We underestimate the power that money has to consume people." Gabe Martin