International Alumni Profiles
Following are profiles of international students from around the world who have graduated and are making their mark in the world with the skills they gained from their time at Regent University.
Varsha Sherring
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School: School of Communications and the Arts Graduated: Spring 2010 Home Country: India |
When I first came to Regent in 1997 to purse my Masters in Communication, I was impressed by both its caliber of academia as well as its dedication to develop Christian leaders to change the world. Two years later, armed with the tools of television production as well as with a deeper understanding of my faith, I returned to India and joined CBN India. I was part of the production team that produced the first weekly Indian 700 Club show in India. Today, that show has evolved into a daily show and is viewed by nearly one million Indians.
In 2005, I felt the need to expand my horizons. So, I applied to Regent’s doctoral program in Communication Studies and was accepted. Once again, I found myself in an environment that not only spurred my academic but also my spiritual growth. I had the privilege to also be involved with Regent’s International student organization known as ISO, first as a member and later as its President. In May 2010, I graduated and joined CBN, Virginia Beach to oversee the daily operations of a television website catering to the Indian diaspora that spans over 25 million.
I am grateful to Regent University and its founder, Dr. Pat Robertson for fulfilling their mission thereby enabling us to fulfill ours.
Jenise Allen
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School: School of Education Graduated: Spring 2008 Home Country: Jamaica |
In August 2006 I enrolled in the hybrid Cross-Categorical Special Education (M.Ed) program at Regent University. After teaching a year in a regular education classroom I had felt compelled to go a step further by focusing on working with students with learning disabilities. The courses in the Cross-Cat program in the School of Education were purposeful in nature. It was clear to me that they were designed and intentionally structured in such a manner that students like myself would be learned and schooled in every aspect of what was needed to be a successful, professional educator. My professors were always careful not to “sugar coat” any information they gave us but always provided numerous examples, practical insights and opportunities to prepare us for the real world
In May 2008, I walked across the stage of the Library Plaza one step closer towards my destiny. Ps. 37:4 says “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” God honored His word by providing me with the exact job that I desired upon completion of my studies. I am now a second grade inclusion special education teacher with the third largest public school system here in Virginia. The population of students that I get to work with on a daily basis is in answer to my prayers of years ago. I am very thankful and grateful for all the mentoring, support and encouragement that I received from my professors at Regent that truly helped me to be the special educator that I am today.
Yujie Yao
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School: School of Education Graduated: Fall 2009 Home Country: China |
I was very fortunate to have had the opportunity to study the Master Teacher Program/TESOL Concentration at the School of Education, Regent University from August, 2008 to December, 2009. Having a Master’s degree in TESOL has been on my mind for a long time. Before I went to Regent, I had taught English as a foreign language at a university in China for four years and felt a great need to learn more about English teaching. Then, Regent opened the door and helped me achieve my goal. The program was very practical and helpful. I was exposed to various language teaching theories and practices. The professors were very professional and supportive. They guided me to focus on what I was interested in and what would be helpful for teaching English to Chinese students in China. That was one of the most meaningful experiences in my life. I felt that I was a like thirsty sponge who was trying to absorb as much as I can.
Graduated from Regent in December, 2009, I started to get ready for a new life back in China. Fortunately, I didn’t have to go through the tough process of finding a job. The school I worked for before I went to the States has kept the position for me. So, I started teaching again right away when the new semester began in March. Now, I have been teaching English reading to about 150 students for a few months. Honestly, it has been a challenge, in that to put what I have learned from Regent into practice in the context of China is not an easy job. I found that there were a lot for me to learn in actual teaching. Regent has prepared me with good theoretical foundation. I will need to learn more from actual teaching practices. I love teaching and spending time with students. I believe it’s a rewarding job.
I am very thankful to have Regent as a part of my life. Starting from here, I’m striving for a more fruitful future.
Andreas Waldmann
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School: School of Divinity Graduated: 2006 Home Country: Germany |
When I came to Regent in 2004, I hoped—but never expected—that this time would change the course of my life the way it did. After more than 7 years in a ”typical” full-time ministry position, I really felt that God was leading my wife and me into a time of refreshing and reorientation. Soon it seemed clear to us that God would like to use a course of study at Regent University to give us the necessary break and prepare us for future ministry. The two years of my M.A. in Practical Theology went by fast and not only widened my perspective for the work of the Kingdom but also enriched our family through the birth of our second son. Half way through my studies, I started worrying (and praying) about God’s next step for our lives.
In the months before graduation, I—almost miraculously—got in touch with a few people from CBN who were planning a German project. As I offered my help, this door seemed to be closed, though. To my surprise, I actually ended up as one of the hosts of the German 700 Club. Back in Germany, God prevented me from simply going back into ministry as I knew it. Instead, He allowed me to be part of the pioneering team that helped establishing CBN’s outreach to German-speaking Europe. As the host, I am able to minister to people throughout Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Since December 2007, I have also had the privilege of serving full-time as the managing director of CBN Deutschland. It’s amazing! I am very grateful that God used Regent to change my life in an unexpected way so that I can be useful for Him to change the (German-speaking) world.
Wole Oladele
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School: Robertson School of Government Graduated: Spring 2010 Home Country: Nigeria |
I graduated from Regent’s School of Government in May of 2010. My time at Regent was absolutely amazing! It was a great learning and growing experience. Now that I have completed my degree, I can confidently say that I am better equipped to take on many of the complex challenges that the real world presents today. The inculcation of Christian values and perspectives into the school program is certainly a huge advantage to students. And interestingly, the addition of Christianity hasn’t sidelined the academic rigor, intensity and diversity of study that is needed in a university. There is certainly a good balance. I have really come to appreciate my Regent education in my still brief time in the work environment.
As an international student in the Virginia Beach campus for approximately two years, I felt welcomed and at home. The environment was very conducive for learning and the people were incredibly warm, friendly and helpful. I was highly impressed by the service to international students. The Regent community provides various avenues through staff and students to attend to the needs of international students. Also, service to international students does not end with graduation as I have come to realize recently upon my graduation.
Huang Nian
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School: School of Law Graduated: 2009 Home Country: China |
I have been interested in international business transaction law for years before I came to Regent. And one of the purposes I came to Regent Law School is that I want to ace on both English language and American legal system. Regent Law School did train me well on both of the fields. Unlike LL.M programs in other law schools which have lots of international students and even lots of Chinese students, Regent Law School has a selective and small group of LL.M students. Therefore, I had a great opportunity to communicate with local students and directly study with J.D. students which has easily immersed me into the local American culture.
The better I know about American language and culture, the more prepared I am for international business transactions, especially the transaction between China and America. I was ready to go back to China to continue my business law career after graduation. However, God has a better plan for me. Now I worked as a project manager for international programs at the School of Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship (GLE), Regent. This great opportunity enables me to learn the core knowledge in the business world. Also, I have had the chance to train myself on management, negotiation and social communication ability.
I am thankful that my Regent education has broadened my career perspective and most importantly, has strengthened my faith in God through the clear direction He has showed to me during my time here.
