Testimonials

Hans

Sophie Davis

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

I love the EC community. Coming from a different country with a totally different school system I was very afraid to start school, but that fear quickly faded. From the very first day of school I could tell that I was surrounded by a warm and nurturing community that is unified by Christ’s love. The culture at Eastern Christian is one that encourages you to strive for excellence in all that you do. Be it in academics, theater, music, or athletics, the EC community will be right there cheering you on.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

One of my favorite teachers is Ms. Bazanowski, who teaches Biology and Anatomy & Physiology. Ms. Bazanowski has had a huge impact on my ambition to become a doctor. Her love for God is very evident in the way she teaches and prays for her students each and every day. Ms. Bazanowski not sparked my love for the sciences but she has also been a great christian example to follow throughout my high school career.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

As a freshman I considered myself a Christian but I was very disconnected from God. Because of the safe and comfortable environment at Eastern Christian I have been able to invest and grow deeper in my faith. I was also able to go on a missions trip with EC to Tanzania. This further reinforced my faith and revealed to me the joy in serving Christ through serving others.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

Every class I have taken since freshman year has been very engaging. The teachers always encourage us to learn new concepts, ask questions, and think critically. Through the nurturing environment here at EC students are then transformed into strong christians that are prepared for college and eventually life.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

I have been pushed to not only strive for excellence but more importantly strive for Jesus in all that I do. Because of Eastern Christian’s emphasis on service I have been able to be a part of multiple service projects, community outreach, and missions trips. These experiences have continued to reinforce my ambition to become a doctor that serves the underserved

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

During my senior year I was able gain work experience at a local hospital through the WINGS program. This experience is something that has truly helped prepare me for my career in medicine. Volunteering at the hospital exposes me to things that you wouldn’t learn in a classroom.This amazing program allows me to gain invaluable knowledge to make me a more advanced student and prepares me for my future.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

I would tell a prospective student that at Eastern Christian you will find a God loving community made up of people that want to see you grow into the amazing person God intended you to be!

Elaina

Humber College

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

As a student with multiple diagnosed learning differences, I have always struggled to find a school that supports me both academically and emotionally. Having learning differences can cause many problems with a student’s self-esteem and until beginning my education at ECHS I never truly felt intelligent or equal to my peers academically. I have experienced multiple ways of schooling; I’ve been in the public system in both America and Canada, I have been home-schooled, and now, I am finishing in a private Christian school. Throughout my public education (K-7) I was treated less than my peers because of the way I learned and I also felt like a burden on my teachers. However, at ECHS the possibilities are seemingly endless when it comes to the teachers and resources this school provides for students like me. Mrs. Englehard, Mrs. Post, and Mrs. Johnson have sat patiently with me and helped me understand any work I had to complete without complaining or even a sigh. I am so thankful EC has given me a place to thrive in. For the last 2 semesters, I have achieved high honor roll and it was possible because of these accommodations EC happily provides.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

I am extremely thankful for Mrs. Genuario. She is a light in ECHS and a light in any student’s life who has had the opportunity to take one of her classes. Her ability to always be herself no matter what is truly inspiring and I hope I grow into a woman similar to her. She is a woman with apparent, deep-rooted faith and so much love for God. Her continuous prayers for me and my life have always brought me a sense of comfort and her ability to produce multiple newspapers a school year and a fully completed yearbook all by herself is mind-boggling. I am so thankful she is here and I was able to be taught and inspired by her every-day.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

EC has taught me a lot about God’s love and God’s forgiveness. High school is a time to make huge strides in your emotional maturity and academic maturity but it is no secret that high school can also be a time to make mistakes (and I have made MANY mistakes). Through it all, God showed me the importance of ‘moving on.’ I have learned that everything that happens is for a reason.

In this school and through my teachers/mentors I have grown in this aspect of my faith. I have learned to trust God and not worry so much.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

The teachers at ECHS are some of the most caring and loving men and women I have ever encountered. Not only can they make an hour and twenty block class fly by, but you can sense the true care they feel their students every day. My teachers have always wanted me to thrive (something very rare in the public system) and I am very thankful for that.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Well, I can write an essay like nobody’s business at this point… but I can also think critically, logically, and spiritually on my own. I feel like I am ready to step out into the world with kindness and humility, two things I learned from my teachers, and conquer any challenges with God as my shield.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

I was able to participate in the WINGS program at Christian Health Care Center in Wyckoff. For a student like me who does not take very rigorous courses in school, it is so helpful to have an internship with credits attached to it. I was able to bump up my GPA and resume in one class which is extremely helpful. I am thankful for my internship because it taught me so much about the working world and what to expect.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

It’s a small school, so try to get involved. I made the majority of my friends in the first two weeks of high school after I joined the school play. Of course, this was terrifying, but I thought it would be fun to play a part like “tree #3” and make friends while doing it. It’s important to be involved, not only socially, but also later in life. Involvement means a longer and stronger transcript and better relationship with teachers, which can never hurt.

Jaylyn

William Paterson

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

I love the environment and community that the staff creates for these students. Throughout my years at EC I’ve noticed significant differences between this school and others. The faculty’s relationship with the students is different from any other school. They’re supportive, nurturing, involved and loving. I’ve formed such great relationships with some of my teachers that helped me feel supported and cared for throughout my years at EC. I felt comfortable to explore talents and interests that I may have been too timid to explore without those teachers supporting me and being there for me to approach whenever I needed to.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

It was only until recently that I realized how much this teacher has impacted my faith and growth. I was being interviewed for an article in EC Times, and when asked about people who have influenced my growth I could not stop talking about Ms. Lindemulder. Through having classes with her, I’ve learned so much more than another language. She displayed what it means to walk in Christ every single day she walked into the classroom. She taught me how to explore other people’s cultures– to be open-minded, loving, and accepting. She taught me how to put myself into other people’s shoes, so I could better understand and love them. She also just always brought light into any interaction, and never ceased to brighten up my day no matter what she was going through. She has been such a role model to me as a Christian.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

I’ve learned how to better minister to others through my actions, and to love others the way Christ loves us. It’s easy in the community that Eastern Christian provides to grow in these ways, especially with supportive teachers and students around you who want you to grow.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

Like I answered earlier, the teachers here create nurturing relationships that set Eastern Christian apart from others schools, and I am so grateful I was able to have that. High School is hard time for teenagers. It’s time where your figuring out how you view the world, and a lot of our lives changed a great deal during our high school years. It is amazing to have teachers that are willing to be with you through every part of it and offer guidance, support, care, and advice, that go beyond what’s being taught in the classroom.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

I knew from my freshman year that I wanted to go into therapy of some kind, specifically to help people with special needs. However, EC gave me a different motivation. I now want to go into this career so I can help better love others the way Christ calls us to. This stems from my classes with Ms. Lindemulder, where she taught me how there are many ways to do this even by just putting yourself in their shoes and getting to know how they live their life. I decided that I wanted to incorporate this into the work I want to do, and love the kids I work with the way Christ calls us to love.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

I really came out of a shell that I wasn’t aware I had at EC. I came to EC very reserved and not comfortable with myself. Due to the comforting and supporting environment, I was able to explore interests, things about myself, and come out of my shell without worrying about failing. I knew I was supported in anything I wanted to try, and that when I did something to come out of my shell I would supported and welcomed. I don’t think I would have felt that same comfort or had that same opportunity anywhere else.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

Do not be nervous or afraid. I remember coming into my freshman I was nervous. Nervous about getting to know new students, teachers, and trying to navigate my high school experience somewhere I had never been and where I was completely new. However, I couldn’t have felt more welcomed. You won’t regret coming to EC, and you certainly have nothing to worry about. My first day at EC teachers were so welcoming and helpful, and I found students to navigate with and laugh all the way through it.

Cassidy

Cornell

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

I love the teachers at Eastern Christian. The smaller class size means that teachers often take an individualized interest in you and your learning, which makes it easier to ask questions or get help when necessary. As a result, I have been able to build strong relationships with many of my teachers through both classes and extracurricular clubs, and some of the teachers have become my trusted mentors.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

Mrs. Kim, who teaches many of EC’s math classes, is one of my favorite teachers because of the way she connects with her students. She’s incredibly knowledgeable about mathematics, and she is able to convey the material in a way that is fun and interesting. I always look forward to her classes.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

I have a better understanding of faith and how to connect with God as a result of my experience at Eastern Christian. The Bible teachers are always willing to answer any questions that I might have, which has been helpful for growing my faith. They are genuinely interested in each person’s walk with God, and they understand that not everyone is in the same place in their relationship with God.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

The STEAM program is one way that I have experienced all three of these ideas in my education at Eastern Christian. STEAM is a four-year program in which students focus on a single research question or project idea, so it really allowed me to engage in learning about a single topic. STEAM students are also assigned mentors, which allows teachers to nurture students’ minds and challenge them to grow. Finally, when I first drafted my STEAM proposal in freshman year, I was challenged by the STEAM mentors to create a project that would have a positive and tangible impact on the world, which reflects EC’s focus on transformation.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Academically, I feel prepared for college writing and presentations thanks to EC’s Humanities program. I believe that the regular essays and presentations required for that class have prepared me for college assignments and given me essential skills that I will need when I enter the workforce later in life.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

I think one of the experiences that is unique to EC is the Christmas Festival, which has become a tradition at Eastern Christian High School. Every year, EC hosts first and second grade students from a Paterson elementary school and celebrates Christmas with them. Being a high school buddy to one of the first or second grade students and watching them have fun with the different activities is an experience that is definitely unique to EC. The way that the community comes together to hold the event and ensure that the children have a joyful Christmas celebration is reflective of the strong and caring community we have here at EC.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

I would tell them that there are a lot of opportunities to learn and grow at EC, and deciding not to attend would be a missed opportunity. Regardless of what they are interested in, EC is able to provide a way for them to explore the subjects they love. EC students also have diverse academic and personal interests, so I would say that prospective students shouldn’t worry that it will be difficult to find a group of like-minded people that they can learn with.

Juliana

Hope College

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

While at Eastern Christian, I didn’t feel like I was just another student walking in the hallway. Both the faculty and students created an environment where my voice was able to be heard. I have been able to hold many enlightening conversations in which others sought to learn about me as a person and where I was able to hear their perspectives as well. The integration of care while broadening my horizons has been a fruitful and rewarding experience.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

Although it is hard to pick just one teacher as my favorite, Ms. Roniet is definitely one that comes to mind. As both my Humanities II World History Honors and Genocide and Human Behavior teacher, I had the privilege to learn a lot about the story of humanity from her. She is knowledgeable about the subjects she teaches and encourages her students to think deeper about material when conversations are held in class. She has never failed to make me laugh while making pop culture references when describing historical events and it is evident that she enjoys teaching and being with students. As a student that wants to pursue a career in the social sciences and humanities, Ms. Roniet has shown me different ways to consider others’ perspectives, digest material, and see how God has worked in our lives. Because of her, I know that my understanding of the God’s world has been strengthened.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

I have grown tremendously in my faith in the past four years while at Eastern Christian. Over the course of these years, I have been a part of Anchored Girls’ Christian Fellowship— an all-female Bible study that occurs during SOAR— and my involvement has escalated from member to co-leader during my senior year. This Bible study has taught me a lot about what it means to be a Christian, but more importantly, how to be a woman of God. I learned that a woman of God has been blessed with the ability to care for others, work hard, and able to become a leader as well. In my daily life, I have been challenged to integrate these ideas into my endeavors and embed the love of Christ into all that I do. I know that my vision of what it means to be a Christian has been transformed by my experience at Eastern Christian.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

Before starting at EC, I thought that a high school education constituted of sitting in a room with a textbook on the desk, a pencil by your side, and just writing down information on the board; however, once I started I realized that this was not the case. Eastern Christian offers a curriculum that explains God’s involvement in the world around us and how it affects us as human beings. My teachers have effectively communicated this message by not just teaching material in the lecture style, but creating hypothetical scenarios in which the material we learned would be used, having students explore the world outside of Eastern Christian through field trips, and encouraging our own adventure into material through research projects and group discussions. These methods have challenged me in a multitude of ways but they occurred at a pace that fostered interest rather than stress. This positive experience has encouraged me to become engaged in the world around me and see the different complexities that it holds.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Eastern Christian has taught me the importance of community. Rather than encouraging competition, there is an emphasis on diversity, conversing with others, and celebrating others’ accomplishments. I think that learning how to effectively communicate and genuinely interacting with others in manners like these is something of significance as our world continues to expand. I am excited to see how God will guide me and my understanding of community as I enter the real world.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

While at EC, I have had many cross-cultural interactions and opportunities. This school has allowed me to be involved in a missions trip to Guatemala, an exchange trip to the Netherlands over Spring Break and to even befriend the international students. Through these experiences, I have been challenged to expand my means of interactions and as a result, have become more curious about the world itself; I learned that regardless of cultural or language backgrounds, people can still communicate with each other and share the same interests. As I enter college, I am grateful to have learned the importance of cross-cultural interaction from the opportunities that Eastern Christian offers.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

During 8th grade, I was presented with the choice of coming to Eastern Christian or continuing my education in my current school system. However, I chose to attend Eastern Christian my freshman year of high school because I knew that they offered a unique experience I wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. Through various visits, I saw that the faculty and staff are incredible people who not only truly enjoy their area of study, but genuinely care about their students. Over the course of my high school career, I have been able to affirm that my observation was true as the teachers continuent show interest in me as a student and as a person. The discussions that I have had with teachers have strengthened my understanding of the material in class but also what it means to be a Christian. Although these aspects may seem small, in the long run, they have a huge impact on your high school experience. I know that I have become more interested in my studies, involvement in the community, and most importantly, my faith because of this aspect. If you are considering attending Eastern Christian, I would definitely recommend visiting the school and talking with some of the teachers to witness this yourself.

What else would you like to share about your EC experience?

Eastern Christian has motivated me to become a leader in many different areas. Although these opportunities do require determination on one’s own part, they also require the willingness of those around them. Through my involvement in student government, the Art Club, small groups, and faith-based organizations, I have been able to work with people who encouraged me to become a better leader and were willing to dedicate time and effort into strengthening my abilities. I am extremely grateful for all of the opportunities those at Eastern Christian have offered me.

Chan Gyu

Michigan State

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

How do I even begin, there are many things I love about Eastern Christian but my absolute favorite has to be the teachers. The teachers here are genuine, loving, and caring mentors. They are easy to approach and become your friends while still having that student-teacher relationship. The care and thought they put into this school and the students are immense and need to be acknowledged.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

My favorite teacher is Mrs. Clark, who is the orchestra teacher. She scouted me into orchestra back in junior year and sparked and fueled my love for music. Though this may sound crazy to some students but everyday I looked forward to orchestra. She made it such a welcoming environment and showed respect and genuine care for others. She felt like a second mother and there are no words to describe how truly amazing person she is.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

Last year for a project in Mr. Bailey’s apologetic class we were assigned to research various arguments against Christianity and with this research we were told to defend against these arguments. This triggered my faith to grow because it forced me to defend my beliefs against others. When we go to our churches we usually attend peacefully without arguments because everybody who goes there have the same degree of beliefs. However the real world is nothing like our churches and people will challenge our beliefs. This class prepared and strengthened me in faith for the challenges of the real world.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

Throughout my high school career not a single teacher was not engaging. Whether through academics / faith / worldview they all have engaged in someway. Nurturing came from the community where we were supported by one another and the teachers who over viewed our process of growth and made sure to guide us to the correct path. From freshmen to Senior, I went through constant transformations, improving my personality, academics, and spirituality.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

I feel that EC has well prepared me for graduation and the future. The unusual blocking system gave us a taste of how college classes are going to be and by teaching critical thinking, it allowed me to look and think outside the box. Also the staff in college and career were constantly there for us for college or life advices.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

The relationships I built with my teachers are something I doubt I’ll experience anywhere else. Like how I’ve repeated for the past several thousand times, the teachers show genuine care and respect for us. It’s just something you can’t always get.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

You will not regret it. There will be many challenges, opportunities and friendships that will come along and if you join, it will be up to you to take up on those to make it your best EC experience.

Angela

TCNJ

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

There are many aspects I love about Eastern Christian, but the most prominent one is the aspect of community. Because I have been blessed to attend Eastern Christian my entire educational career, I have been able to watch both myself and my classmates grow into young adults from the early age of 6 to 18. The communal bond between these “lifers” is unique, but certainly not excluding. Over the many years at Eastern Christian, I have become close friends with many new students who choose to enter this community and are accepted. Sometimes, I am able to hear stories about other school experience from these friends, and they all remark on how the community at Eastern Christian is very unique and valuable.

Another aspect of Eastern Christian I am grateful for is how faith-centered this environment is. Although as a young child I oftentimes took prayer times and morning devotions for granted, as I grew older and witnessed the state of the world around me, I found myself incredibly blessed to be in a school where one can openly express religion, and ask for spiritual guidance to any faculty member. One such example I will greatly cherish is walking in the halls and seeing two teachers praying together on the side, alone together with God while crowds of students casually walked by, giving some space. Another example of seeing this faith-centered community is when after a late-chapel, the remaining audience who chose to remain for an extra few minutes gathered around in a circle and prayed. However, these are just only a couple experiences of faith I have witnessed. My faith has also been nurtured and strengthened through teachers, through their expression of faith and their desire to help integrate God into the classroom, regardless of what subject they teach.

Therefore, I treasure the community and expression of faith at Eastern Christian High School. I am well aware that I will be leaving the comforts of daily devotionals and prayer time at my next school, where there will most likely be no popcorn prayer time, no daily devotionals, and not the same Bible teacher who is genuinely willing to help guide and educate me on my faith.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

Mr. Bailey, the Bible teacher I have mentioned in my previous response, is one of my favorite teachers at Eastern Christian High School. This was a very hard decision, because I have close relationships with several teachers at EC. However, I chose Mr. Bailey based on the amount of spiritual guidance and education he has offered me and my classmates. Mr. Bailey is an amazing Bible teacher because he chooses to tackle historically controversial topics in the Bible and reveal the truth, give us realistic advice on how to become or better oneself as a follower of God, and never steps down from being asked all sorts of questions regarding religion. He is very educated, and although I know I can ask Google, I find myself making a mental list of questions to bombard him with because 9/10 times he actually knows the answer, and the other 1/10 times he tries his absolute best to give at least an opinion founded on his faith. Also, unlike the Internet, Mr. Bailey will always tie in Christianity and how our faith is involved in his replies to these questions.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

Although I live in a Christian household, where many of my grandparents on my mother’s side have been pastors or heavily involved with the Church, I am confident I would not have been able to have grown in my faith as I did at E.C. I say this because I believe that every person is partly a culmination of experience and environmental factors, and the environment I was placed in has certainly allowed me to grow mentally, and thus spiritually. I cannot point to a specific event or person, because the constant witnessing of faith in others have consistently healed and strengthened me in my times of weakened faith.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

In my personal experience, I believe that the education at E.C. is relatively engaging, meaning that each class is engaging based on the teacher, subject, etc. But while the “engagement” aspect of education may relative to each individual and classroom, the nurturing and transforming aspects of E.C. can be observed across the school. Although I was not able to be taught by all the teachers at E.C., from my personal experience, every teacher I have encountered has genuinely shown their love for teaching materials of both educational and spiritual means to students. To me, this is important, for with nurturing comes transformation.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Eastern Christian has prepared me for graduation through specific classes, such as Personal Finance Literacy, an awesome College and Career office crew, and a faculty who will give advice and retell personal experiences about college and career.

In terms of graduation, I feel that the many events leading up to the graduation date has been immensely helpful in beginning the “goodbyes”, and giving us enough time between each event to both process emotions and be excited for the next event.

In terms for college and career, many teachers have been helpful in offering me advice into what I am specifically looking to study in college. For an example, Mrs. Post and Ms. Bazanowski have both been of great help in the past in helping me decide if I want to go into biology in the first place. Their stories of experience, adventure, and education have solidified my motives to go into the field of biology. Furthermore, Mrs. Lindamoulder’s dedicated appreciation for language and of how we as Christians can use it to spread our faith have inspired me to take language courses in college.

In terms of life, E.C. has prepared me for life by cultivating an environment where I am able to grow my faith and be strengthened before I set out into the world.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

I believe I would not have been able to experience being a part of Chapel band or being part of student governments whose goals and guidelines are rooted in Christian beliefs. Being part of the Chapel band was a challenging and rewarding experience, and I believe that our specific Chapel Worship program (and also the Bible Worship Committee) is something especially unique to E.C..

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

I would say that anyone can join any school, but the impact a school can have on you depends on how much you open yourself to the community around you. E.C. has a unique array of students who come from various backgrounds of both socioeconomic and cultural means, and the stories and experiences one will share with these people are mind-opening. At E.C., you will encounter students on all different paths of faith; some may be open about it, and some may not be so open about it. However, wherever YOU are, you can always, always, be assured that there is more than one person here at E.C. who is always more than willing to help you find your way in both the educational and spiritual world.

Jax

Wake Forest

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

One of the main reasons why I love Eastern Christian is because of the strong sense of community. Coming from a public school, I wanted to find a place where I would be welcomed and appreciated for who I am. EC did just that when I entered the doors of ECMS at the beginning of sixth grade. Furthermore, Eastern Christian has a strong moral compass across all of its campuses. I can easily tell that every student loves God, loves people, and most importantly, has a desire to create an impact for themselves, the local community, or even the world!

Another reason why I love EC is because of the engaging teachers and faculty. Like the students, the teachers here continually exemplify EC’s core values and motivate their students to do the same. I have grown in every single class due to EC’s challenging curriculum. I value the school’s focus on creating a learning environment that is primarily focused on applying the material in the classroom and developing new skills as a result.

Eastern Christian also excels in allowing students to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities and other academic opportunities that either help students find their passion or develop a skill. My experience working in the Technical Booth for both chapels and theater productions has allowed me to develop a skill and passion that I want to pursue in college and beyond. I also feel that my experience as a JV captain on my cross country team has shaped me into a leader and teacher to others.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

While I do love all of the teachers that I have had at EC, my favorite one is my English and Spanish teacher, Ms. Pedersen! I have taken four classes with Ms. Pedersen throughout my high school career, and I have enjoyed each one. Ms. Pedersen has taught me many writing skills that I will definitely use in college. She also succeeds in creating an engaging and enjoyable learning environment in each of her classes.

I also want to extend my gratitude to my Journalism teacher, Mrs. Genuario, and my former math teacher Mrs. Andrews. Both of these teachers have helped me unleash my passion in writing and math and have opened my eyes to possible career paths in the future!

Finally, as one of the first students to complete the four-year STEAM program, I am very appreciative of my mentor Ms. Bazanowski and the STEAM director Mr. Verrengia. Their consistent guidance and support of my project has been critical to its final outcome.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

I believe that the weekly chapels were an integral part in the development of my faith at EC. I thoroughly enjoyed every speaker and hearing a relevant, applicable message. I also enjoyed being part of a worship community at EC. I never felt out of place during chapel, but rather, I felt enveloped in a community full of passionate believers.

I also think that the teachers at EC have also played a big role in my faith. At EC, teachers share their Christian faith with students and try to apply it to a specific academic discipline. One example that I always remember is seeing how Mr. Verrengia used his faith in teaching Physics Honors. He would always remind me that physics exists because God made the universe orderly. Without God, we wouldn’t be able to comprehend how the world operates!

Lastly, I appreciated the opportunity to pray before every class. When a student shares a need, that prayer is always respected. The students show care toward others by sincerely praying for their needs. I remember when I shared a prayer request how both the students and teachers would pray for me and then ask me the next day how the situation turned out. Whether it was asking for healing for a sick family member or for wisdom for an upcoming test, praying at the start of class has helped me grow in my walk with God.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

I definitely feel that EC has provided me with an engaging, nurturing, and transforming education because of the many opportunities I have had to apply the knowledge I have learned. One of the best examples of this in my high school career is the STEAM program. In this program, I was able to pursue a four-year research project on the possible effects of corticosteroids on the onset, severity, and acceleration of Alzheimer’s disease. I believe that my experience in the STEAM program has been very rewarding, as I have learned how to obtain and conduct research while also being able analyze and draw conclusions from scientific studies.

The STEAM program has transformed me into an even more curious person. There are so many questions in our world that need an answer, and the STEAM program allows students to ask those tough questions. When I go to Wake Forest University in a few months, I will always remember to remain a lifelong learner. Just like Mr. Verrengia once told me in an EC Times interview, “There are always things we can learn.”

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Eastern Christian has definitely prepared me for college and beyond in a few ways. One of these ways was through the amount of challenging, yet rewarding, work. Although some may be afraid of challenging work, EC has continued to ignite my passion to pursue academic challenges. EC has taught me that almost any challenge comes with a positive reward. Whether it is simply learning a new topic, completing an in-depth research project, or finishing the lengthy process of laying out the EC Times, I have grown as a result of these challenges, and I would not trade it for anything else!

I also think that EC’s liberal arts education has prepared me for the real world. At EC, I was able to explore a breadth of academic opportunities, some of which I may want to pursue for a career (Math / Statistics and Journalism). As a result of taking many diverse courses, I feel that I have adequate knowledge in many different disciplines. That is the beauty of EC’s education. EC has provided a wide range of courses while also not losing any depth in each course. Every teacher is passionate about the subject material, and is also very knowledgeable in it. Our world is always changing, and EC’s liberal arts education has allowed me to become more prepared to adapt to our ever-changing society.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

If I did not go to EC, I do not think that I would have experienced a welcoming, Christ-loving community. I have always wanted to be a part of a community that cares for one another and accepts people for who they are. I also do not think that I would have been able to form close connections with my teachers at other larger schools. I think that the longer classes and block scheduling allow students and teachers to deeply explore a topic rather than rushing through it in a 40-minute session.

I also think that I would not have been able to experience the small, engaging classes anywhere but EC. While other schools do have small classes, I feel that EC’s class sizes allow students to personally know their teachers and vice versa. At EC, teachers are not just there to teach, but also to know their students and guide them on their walk with Christ. I do not think I would have experienced such a caring faculty anywhere else.

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

I would tell them to go for it! I am confident that a prospective student would also feel the close-knit community at EC, know their teachers personally, and be encouraged to explore and find their area of passion. EC has provided me with opportunities to grow, and I know they will continue to do the same for all of their new students. If a student wants a worthwhile and rewarding Christian education, there is no better place to look in Northern New Jersey than Eastern Christian!

Yeremiya

UCLA

What do you love about Eastern Christian School?

I think the thing that I love most (there are quite a few) is the community that connects students. We’re a medium-sized school I would like to think, but it really feels like a large family – as cliche as it might sound. Every day that I walk into school it just feels like home. That’s not to say that everyday is sunshine and rainbows, but it really has felt like to me the past 4 years that we’re all apart of a community connected by love, genuine respect, and care for one another’s wellbeing. It’s one of the things that I think is rarely found at other places that I wish I would have appreciated sooner.

Describe one of your favorite teachers and tell why he/she is a favorite.

My favorite faculty member would be Mr. I because of how down-to-earth and open he is; talking to him is like talking to a friend, a really inspiring friend at that. In terms of teachers, I have a deep appreciation and love for Dr. Yoder. If it’s a teacher’s job to inspire and instill passion within their students, Dr. Yoder succeeds tremendously. For me, she’s always challenging me as a musician in Honors Choir and also genuinely cares about all of us – sometimes we’ll spend the first 40 minutes of class praying for one another because of how concerned and truly invested she is in our lives.

In what ways have you grown in your faith as a result of your experience at Eastern Christian School?

I think helping to lead worship during chapels has been instrumental in my faith growth throughout high school. When I first came to EC, I was so against joining the Chapel team, mainly due to insecurity over the vulnerability that comes with singing to and for God publicly. However, once I joined, I realized how great it was to sing with and worship with other people who were both passionate about music and driven for God. I didn’t realize that I would enjoy it as much as I did and definitely was not expecting for it to impact my daily life in any way, but I was happily proven wrong.

At Eastern Christian we talk about an education that is “Engaging. Nurturing. Transforming.” How did you experience this kind of education at EC?

I feel like the education I’ve been able to gain at EC has been multidimensional. In our Humanities class, I was definitely engaged with the material and coursework that we studied throughout the four years of the program, material that, to me, really tackled universal elements of what it means to be a human and themes that a lot of people can relate to. It was also really cool to grow as I progressed through the program; while it is writing-intensive and guided by teachers somewhat at the beginning, as the program progressed I became more and more independent in my work habits and independent learning of the material – mainly because I had to in order to succeed in the class. While challenging, I think that the program definitely helped me to grow and transform for the better as a person, along with helping me to refine my identity along the way through a ton of in-depth readings that I didn’t realize I would enjoy so much.

How do you feel that EC prepared you for graduation, college/career and life?

Not only do I feel like I’ve been challenged academically by the classes I’ve taken here, I think that EC’s community, clubs, and musical activities have really helped me to “come into my own” and give me a space to find out who I am. That’s not to say that I know everything about myself because I’ll always be growing and learning, but I really think that, throughout the past four years, I’ve been given ample opportunities to find what I’m interested in, passionate about, and really discover who I am. Although there’s always time to figure things out, EC has really helped me to become confident in who I am and grow stronger in my faith, no matter how far away I may be from home or the environment.

What opportunities did you experience at EC that you don’t think you would have gotten to experience anywhere else?

The first semester of my Senior Year I was able to do an internship at a recording studio in Hackensack through the WINGS Program run by Mr. Wright, which was very cool. As someone who is deeply passionate about music, being able to do what I love at a professional level helped me to further realize what I’m specifically passionate about when it comes to music and was just an overall fun experience. Additionally, singing at Carnegie Hall with Honors Choir during Junior Year was an incredible experience. Not only was the singing itself fun, but it was a great bonding experience for everyone in the choir (along with Mr. I and Dr. Yoder too!).

What would you say to a prospective student considering joining Eastern Christian School?

Come! If you want to grow and challenge yourself while being surrounded by teachers and friends who genuinely care about your wellbeing, EC definitely is the place for you. I would also say to students who even are at EC already to appreciate the special place that we’re all a part of, it’s unique and I know I’m definitely going to miss it.