Bryn Athyn College Alumni Magazine Spring/Summer 2017 | Page 8

GRADUATION
Richard Glenn, Austin Grubb, and Luke David:
good friends and fellow graduates.
Janina Smith receives a congratulatory hug from Maia Wyncoll.
professors: “I loved how the psychology professors
here encouraged us to express our opinions on various
topics.  It allowed me to better process the informa-
tion that I learned because I was always applying ideas
to life.” She added, “The chair of the psychology de-
partment, Dr. Erica Goldblatt Hyatt was instrumen-
tal in helping me choosing my career path. Hearing
about her career inspired me to further my education
so I can make an impact in the field of addictions.”
Kristina plans to take advantage of the College’s con-
nection with Rosemont College; after graduation, she
will enroll there for a master’s in counseling. Reflect-
ing on her time at Bryn Athyn, Kristina said, “I cher-
ish the friendships I have made here. I truly believe
the people I met at the College will be my friends for
many years to come.”
Some of the graduates have already lined up jobs
in their fields. Biology major Justin Ball, for example,
has been offered a position as a clinical research co-
ordinator at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
After a year of working there, he plans on going to
medical school to become a physician. Justin said,
“The faculty is the core of why I chose Bryn Athyn
College; they’re intelligent, engaging, knowledgeable,
caring, and focused on each individual.”
Religion major Richard Glenn echoed the sen-
timent of many other students: “My favorite part of
majoring in religion has been the faculty. It has been
incredibly useful to be taught by so many different
ministers. It’s an amazing and unique experience to
learn from people who have the job you are work-
ing towards. The insight, experience, and wisdom
I’ve received has helped me learn, most importantly,
8 | SPRING/SUMMER 2017
Kristina Clark will pursue a
master's in counseling.
how to think. It has been invaluable.” He added, “The
faculty as a whole has provided an environment that
promotes personal growth and learning instead of
grinding through a universally-applied education.
The close faculty-to-student ratio allowed faculty to
have a personalized investment in my education and
growth.”
Richard offered an example of the impact of
great education: “I remember a particular religion
class freshman year, where we focused on the inner
workings of the mind. That class shaped my outlook
on life. Four years later, I still view my life through
the religious lens offered in those 70 minutes. It was a
humbling experience that has stuck with me in a pow-
erful way.” After graduating, Richard looks forward
to attending the Theological School and starting the
process of fulfilling his dream of becoming a minis-
ter, and possibly a religion teacher. 
For Richard, Saryluz, Justin, Kristina, Janina,
Kyle, and the rest of their classmates, graduation day
marked a pivotal time of exciting new beginnings. We
hope you join us in sending your warmest wishes and
kind thoughts to the class of 2017 as they embark on
a future of discovering their place in this world and
living lives of love and useful service. 