Courtney Showell

Through her interactions with caring professors and meaningful studies, Courtney Showell ’17 is moving forward with confidence.

Describe the influence your social work professors have had on your experience at Calvin.

The professors in this department are some of the most caring people I've ever met. I remember walking into the office and saying I was thinking about changing my major to social work and Professor Hoeksema hopped out of her chair and gave me a big hug. I knew I was in the right spot.

What would you want to tell someone starting their journey at Calvin?

Don't be afraid to try new things, better yet, try ALL the new things! There is so much out there and there are probably skills, talents, and interests you have just waiting to be uncovered.

What is one thing that surprised you about Calvin?

Even though I am from Grand Rapids, I had no idea what Calvin was, so coming here I was surprised about how broadly known this college was. I went to Hawaii over the summer and was wearing a Calvin t-shirt on a mountain hike, and some man yelled "Go Knights!" That was definitely a surprise.

Describe some things that you love about your experience as a Social Work student

Being a woman and a person of color, I know the potential of being discriminated against. Being in the social work department has prepared me with concrete facts that are not only needed for my degree, but helpful in preparing me to stand up for myself. Not to mention I'm surrounded by a group of people who can stand up for me as well.