Pursuit Fall 2024

INSIDE: THE NU VIBE // YOUR QUESTIONS: ANSWERED // JOURNEY TO NU

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@NORTHWESTU

A (VERY SHORT) INTRODUCTION Northwest University (NU) began in 1934 as a Bible college and has grown over the years to offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees at our Kirkland campus or 100% online.

Our traditional undergraduate experience includes a wide variety of career-focused majors and programs—as well as internships and a Career Readiness program—to equip you for success.

Our graduates have gone on to become leaders in business, education, entrepreneurship, health care, psychology, music production, entertainment, ministry, and more.

THE NU DIFFERENCE What makes NU different from other schools? Our unique combination of academic excellence and an unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ. At NU, you’ll experience a rigorous scholarly environment where faculty, staff, and your classmates are all in pursuit of Jesus (hence the name of this magazine). He goes before us and is first in all we do.

Our campus culture is summed up in four words: Jesus First. Jesus Always.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS EXPLORE MORE We invite you to explore these pages to learn more.

Our hope is that you’ll discover a university where you can pursue a career and Christ. Grow in intellect and faith. Where friends and jobs and nature abound.

Where you’ll create an unshakeable foundation upon which you can build the rest of your life.

And it all begins with Jesus.

4 YOUR QUESTIONS: ANSWERED COLLEGE STILL A GOOD 6 ISINVESTMENT? CAN MY FAITH COME 8 HOW TO LIFE? WILL NU SUPPORT MY 10 HOW TRANSITION TO COLLEGE? 12 WHAT’S THE VIBE LIKE AT NU? CAN I DO NEAR CAMPUS? 14 WHAT 16 DESTINATION: DREAM JOB WILL NU PREPARE 18 HOW ME FOR MY CAREER? 20 YOUR COMPLETE JOURNEY TO NU DO YOU MEAN BY 21 WHAT RIGOROUS ACADEMICS? KINDS OF STUDENTS 22 WHAT SUCCEED AT NU? 24 YOUR GUIDE TO NU 27 QUICK FACTS

NORTHWESTU.EDU

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Yes. We See Those Hands.

As an academic institution, we understand the importance of inquiry, of asking questions. So we’ve dedicated this entire issue to answering some of your most pressing concerns about college.

But there are two questions we’ll answer right up front and to both, we answer a resounding yes: Is NU committed to Christ?

Is NU committed to my success?

Since 1934 (that’s 90 years!), we’ve created a unique academic environment where Jesus can be found at every turn. In our classes. In our dorms. At the dining hall. On the sports fields. In our studies. In our fun.

The result is a college experience you might not find anywhere else: an entire community united in Christ and dedicated to your success—not only as a scholar or in the discernment and development of your career, but as a beloved brother or sister in Christ.

It is Jesus who makes Northwest University who we are. And it is Jesus who will shape the person you will eventually become.

Now. About those questions. We think you’ll love our answers.

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By nearly every measure, the answer is yes.

Some reasons are obvious, such as increased earning power.

How much more does a person with a college degree earn annually than those with no degree? How does 76% more sound?

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2021

High School Diploma

Associate Degree

Bachelor’s Degree

Graduate Degree

$33,900

$40,000

$59,700

$79,200

$1.2 Million Difference Source: Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, 2021

Over a lifetime, that can add up to a difference of $1.2 million. Yes. MILLION.

High School Graduates $1.6 Million

Bachelor’s Degree Holders $2.8 Million

Others are less apparent, but every bit as important—especially to the well-being of local communities and, yes, even marriages.

twice as many people with a college education volunteered Over

College graduates invest in their communities.

Over a lifetime, bachelor’s degree holders contribute:

in their communities, compared to high

• $278,000 more to their local economy.

school graduates (32% vs 14%).

• $44,000 more in state and local taxes.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023

• $777 more in annual charitable giving.

Source: College Possible, 2018

Over Over half half of of the the marriages marriages among people among people who who did did not not complete complete high high school school ended ended in in divorce divorce compared compared with with 30% 30% of of marriages marriages among among the the college college graduates. graduates.

Source: Bureau of Labor and Statistics

Are there other ways to find a career in life? Absolutely. But few are still as effective in the long run as earning a bachelor’s degree. And at NU, we don’t just provide career-focused majors. All programs also offer internship opportunities to help you gain the kind of real-world experience that can set you up for success once you graduate.

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I See the Value. But Can I Afford College?

At NU, we do everything possible to make your education more affordable.

We start with one of the lowest costs for a private Christian university in the region. And when you add our financial aid awards, costs are reduced. Dramatically.

$

47,215

*

Starting Costs

$

26,715 * Actual Costs

*Includes tuition, room and board, and student fees.

*Includes tuition, room and board, and student fees. Final costs may vary.

The price you see is only a starting point before any financial aid is added.

With NU’s average financial aid award of $20,500, your final costs are drastically reduced. And your financial aid package may be even higher.

Sure, you might find lower tuition at a public university. But how much is it worth to belong to a community where you can be your full Jesus-following self? Where professors pray with you? Where classmates care for you? Where class sizes are smaller so you won’t get lost in a sea of faces but are known?

It all adds up to a college experience you may not find anywhere else. Ask our thousands of graduates: NU is worth it.

Did You Say Scholarships?

In addition to financial aid, NU offers a wide variety of scholarships. Some, like our President’s Scholarship, pay full tuition.

Others are based on academics, athletics, music, and other areas of interest. And our College of Ministry promises that all on-campus undergrad ministry majors will receive awards equal to at least 50% of tuition.

What About Campus Employment?

Another way to reduce your costs is by obtaining a work-study job on campus. Our departments are always looking for student workers who don’t just earn extra income, but they learn valuable skills on the job and build their resumés and referrals.

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When I was considering universities, financial aid was my biggest concern, and I didn’t think that it would be realistic to attend a private four-year institution and still graduate debt-free, like I had hoped. As a senior in high school, applying for outside scholarships was essentially my part-time job! But after talking with NU’s financial aid counselors and receiving academic scholarships from Northwest University’s generous pool of donors, my dream of attending and graduating from NU suddenly became not only a possibility, but a reality.

Martina Preston, Class of 2024

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NU students build community with local children in Mexico and Kenya.

Jesus is at the center of everything we do at NU, so creating opportunities for your faith to flourish is one of our top priorities.

Whether it’s through chapel services, spontaneous student-led worship nights in the dorms, life-changing mission trips, or deep theological conversations in the classroom, our community is intentional about helping you grow in your relationship with Christ.

Our students have experienced physical healings and many answered prayers during chapel.

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Students gather every Monday night for Pursuit, our student-led prayer and worship service.

NU nursing students provide medical care in Belize.

Annual mission trips give our students the chance to share the gospel in countries all over the world.

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During my time at NU, I enjoyed participating in various student activities, such as Welcome Weekend, intramural sports, multicultural worship nights, and life groups, which added a lot of fun and community to my college experience. Through internships and on-campus student employment opportunities, I also developed a range of valuable professional skills. Northwest University was instrumental in shaping me into a well-rounded individual beyond just my academic experience.

YA S M I N E A M E I O U D // C L A S S O F 2 0 2 4 Major: History and Politics // International Student from Morocco

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Entering college often comes with a mix of emotions—like excitement, anticipation, and curiosity about what the future holds. Sometimes it also comes with a bit of uncertainty as you step into a new season that may feel unfamiliar. But at NU, you never have to feel alone. Our priority is to make sure you receive the support, encouragement, and community you’ll need to not only make the initial transition to college during Welcome Weekend but to thrive the whole time you’re here.

Campus Resources

Ways To Get Involved

• Academic Success and Advising

• Student Activities Board (SAB) • Associated Students of Northwest University (ASNU) • MOSAIC (Multicultural Organization of Students

–Tutoring –Writing Center

• Career Services • Campus Ministries • NUhope (counseling and mental health services)

• Eagle Fitness Center • Faculty Office Hours

Active in Christ)

• Life Groups through Campus Ministries • Pursuit (student-led worship services) • NU Athletics and Intramurals • Student Clubs (Chess Club, K-pop Club, Dancing for Jesus Club, Poetry Club, and more)

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We believe your college experience should challenge your intellect, broaden your horizons, and, in our case, nourish your faith. We also think your college experience should be incredibly fun! That’s why we do everything possible to create an environment that passes the vibe check.

Some of Our Most Popular Events • Welcome Back Bash • Late-Night Breakfast • Talon’s Tonight • End Scene Improv Shows • Screaming Eagles Week • Evening

• Northwest Fest • Annual Hoedown • On-Campus Concerts (Josiah Queen, Joseph O’Brien, and more!)

Follow our Student Activities Board (SAB) on Instagram to see what fun events they’re planning next:

@sab_northwestu

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PNW

Kirkland, Washington—which is about 10 miles east of Seattle—is a pretty incredible place to live, study, and work. It’s a safe community, surrounded by beautiful nature, and filled with amazing restaurants, coffee shops, concert venues, parks, shopping, and entertainment.

Weekends and days off are never boring for our students because there’s always something to do near campus! Here are some of our top picks in the area: Restaurants • • • • • • •

DERU Market Chick-fil-A Totem Lake Joe’s Burgers Toshi’s Teriyaki Tres Hermanos Din Tai Fung The Slip

Outdoor Hot Spots • • • • • •

T-docks Waverly Beach Park Juanita Bay Park O.O. Denny Park Bridle Trails State Park Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm

Coffee Shops • • • •

Five Stones Mercury’s Coffee Co. Zoka Thruline Coffee Co.

Seasonal Favorites

(try their PB&J burger!)

• Snowflake Lane at Bellevue Square Mall (Winter) • Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden (Winter) • Kirkland Wednesday Market (Spring and Summer)

• Juanita Friday Market (Spring and Summer)

Seattle Adventures • • • • • • •

Pike Place Market Kubota Garden Seattle Center Bainbridge Island (take the ferry!)

Seattle Central Library Seattle Art Museum Sports events at Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park • Concerts at Neumos, Paramount Theatre, or Climate Pledge Arena • Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) 15

D E S T I N AT I O N : Our 56-acre campus is located in Kirkland, Washington, which has been voted by Money magazine as the fifth best place to live in the U.S. It makes sense why: Kirkland and the greater seattle area are not only home to some of the best activities and amenities but is also ground zero for some of the most influential companies in the world. Studying at NU means you’re positioning yourself for a future of bright possibilities—one that may even land you in your dream job.

To see all that Kirkland and NU have to offer, schedule a visit. We’d love to show you around.

Sign up at northwestu.edu/visit.

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DREAM JOB

YO U ARE HERE

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Here’s what Peter Carlson, our director of career services, wants you to know about our Career Readiness Initiative:

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Through the Career Readiness Initiative, we aim to help students carry the call into the workforce with relevant knowledge and practical skills to be effective throughout their career. Students have the opportunity for one-on-one career counseling to help them consider where they might want to intern and are equipped with tangible steps and networking introductions to help them get there. This past year, we helped place students into internships at T-Mobile, Costco, Fastenal, and many other local employers.

When you study at NU, you’ll be near some of the best internships and jobs in the nation, and you’ll have the opportunity to establish connections with professors and mentors who will help you build the necessary skills to succeed.

And here’s what one of our graduates shares about landing a gig as a touring musician after graduating with his degree in Contemporary Music Industry from NU:

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So much of what I experienced at Northwest shaped the career path I am on today. Not only were the music classes specific to my needs, but getting to tour with the worship team and Choralons gave me real-life experience in the field.

The biggest factor was having such a strong community of students and faculty who believed in me. Thanks in part to their encouragement and discipleship, I have been touring the nation with platinum CCM artist Jordan Feliz since 2023!

JEFFREY ADAMI Touring Musician // Class of 2020

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YO U R C O M P L E T E

JOURNEY T O N O RT H W E S T U N I V E R S I T Y

The college admissions process has several steps, so we understand if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by it. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step roadmap for you. And if you still have questions? Our caring admissions counselors are ready and excited to help you navigate your way. Just contact us at admissions@northwestu.edu.

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What Do You Mean By Rigorous Academics?

College is a time of intense learning.

It requires discipline and focus.

At NU, we are a Jesus-focused learning community dedicated to intellectual flourishing and excellence. Here, you’ll be taught by learned professors who care enough to bring out the very best in you. To help you reach levels of insight and understanding you hardly knew possible. Mentors who will support your academic and career goals with the very

Northwest University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities—the highest level possible—and the same as UW. Niche has ranked us as a top 50 Christian college in the US. NU has earned the Champions of Character Five-Star Award for the second year in a row from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

heart of Christ. It won’t always be easy. But here is our promise: you will be transformed by the experience.

Our graduates have gone on to earn advanced degrees at schools such as Harvard, Princeton, Cornell, and Duke.

Zachary Mann graduated from NU in 2024 with a Master of Business Administration (MBA). He is now a J.D. candidate at Cornell University and getting his doctor of Law.

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Students who love Jesus and love to learn.

Students who are excited to be a part of a close-knit community.

Students who seek internships that can lead to exciting careers.

Students who appreciate the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Students like you.

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Last year, I had the privilege of serving as a Welcome Weekend assistant. I helped plan and execute events that welcomed incoming students to life here at Northwest.

This leadership experience revealed my passion for working behind the scenes to create memorable experiences for students at NU. This school year, I am part of our student government, the Associated Students of Northwest University (ASNU). I am excited to further develop my leadership skills and my commitment to enhancing student life on campus. Each opportunity has contributed to my personal growth as a leader and helped me feel more connected to the Northwest community. From event planning to student government, these experiences have created diverse opportunities that shape my university experience in so many meaningful ways.

H O P E K I N N E Y // S E N I O R Major: Nursing

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I’ve been involved in Choralons, Res Life, the theatre program, the honors program, and have served on tech and worship with campus ministries. These opportunities have taught me a ton about how to serve well and be a good leader. The lessons I’ve learned have been life changing, and I’m only halfway through my time at NU! For me, NU has been a place with a thousand opportunities to grow, a thousand ways to connect, and a thousand chances to love God and serve Him.

J A C O B W E AV E R // J U N I O R Major: Music Production

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NU NU NU NU YOUR GUIDE TO

MEET YOUR ADMISSIONS

COUNSELORS!

THEY WILL HELP YOU THROUGH EACH STEP OF THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS.

david.sickles@northwestu.edu TERRITORY: Serving all students in Snohomish County, Northwest Washington, Olympic Peninsula, Alaska, and states in the Mountain time zone.

HOMETOWN: Lake Stevens, Washington ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “Will I be able to participate in internships as a transfer student?”

JORINE JOHNSON

OSCAR ORNELAS

jorine.johnson@northwestu.edu

oscar.ornelas@northwestu.edu

HOMETOWN: Beaverton, Oregon ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “What scholarships can I apply for?”

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DAVID SICKLES

TERRITORY: Serving all students in Pierce County, Hawaii, and U.S citizens abroad.

HOMETOWN: Kennewick, Washington ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “How does the transfer process work? Will NU accept all of my credits, or is there a way to see which credits will transfer?”

WHY APPLY NOW?

LAUREN BLAIR lauren.blair@northwestu.edu TERRITORY: Serving all students in the Eastside of King County, Southwest Washington, Idaho, California, and all states from the Eastern time zone.

HOMETOWN: Edmonds, Washington ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “How can college prepare me for my career?”

Applying early has several advantages. First, you’ll have initial access to our best scholarships, receiving invites to our exclusive scholarship events. What’s more, you’ll be first on our VIP list for all upcoming events. But applying to NU has long-term benefits that few other universities can match. Our Jesus-first community is a place where your faith will grow. You’ll be mentored by learned professors who love Jesus and teach from real-world experience. You’ll build new friendships that will last a lifetime. You’ll be in the same neighborhood with companies that have changed the world (and are hiring). You’ll experience internships and create career networks that can set you up for success. At NU, you’ll become even more than you ever thought possible in a supportive learning community you only hoped existed. It’s all here. And it all starts with your application.

Apply today through the Common App or at northwestu.edu/apply.

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID Apply online at northwestu.edu/apply.

AUDREY ARNETT audrey.arnett@northwestu.edu TERRITORY: Serving all students in Seattle, South King County, Eastern Washington, and Oregon.

HOMETOWN: Silverton, Oregon ONE QUESTION I WISH I’D ASKED MY ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR: “What are the best ways to build community and connections at NU?”

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

☐ Application. ☐ Optional short answer statement. ☐ Official high school transcript. ☐ Transcripts from all colleges attended.

SCHOLARSHIP DATES:

☐ December 1– Apply for $500 Visit Deadline ☐ February 1– Confirm for President’s Scholarship ☐ March 1–Confirm for Program Scholarship 25

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MINISTRY DEGREES

Business Administration Finance* Information Technology* Management Marketing

Biblical Languages* Communication and Preaching* Global Development* Intercultural Studies Media Ministry* Pastoral Care* Pastoral Ministries University Ministry* Worship and Music Studies Youth, Children, and Family Ministries

COMMUNICATION, ENGLISH, AND HUMANITIES DEGREES Communication Studies Dramatic Studies* English • Creative Writing* • Literature* • TESOL* • Writing* Interdisciplinary Studies Philosophy*

EDUCATION DEGREES Educational Studies • Community Planning • Elementary Education • International Education Elementary Education* Secondary Education*

QUICK FACTS

PSYCHOLOGY DEGREES Psychology Sociology*

SCIENCE AND HEALTH DEGREES Biology • Animal Biology • General Science • Pre-Health • Pre-Medicine Chemistry* Environmental Science Exercise Science BA Exercise Science BS Health Science AA Nursing

TECHNOLOGY, MEDIA, AND DESIGN DEGREES Art* Audio Production Audio Production Technology* Computer Science BA Computer Science BS Design Graphic Design* Music Production • Recording Arts Technology Music Technology User Experience Design Video Game Design Video Game Development • Game Programming • Game UX • Game Video Video Production *Minor

prepare you for your chosen field. For a complete list of majors, minors, and concentrations, visit northwestu.edu/programs.

BUSINESS DEGREES

We offer over 60 academic programs, each one designed to uniquely

MAJORS AND PROGRAMS

95%

STUDENTS RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS

94%

GRADUATES WHO FOUND JOBS WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF GRADUATION

93%

GRADUATES WHO SAY THEY WERE PREPARED FOR THEIR CAREER

60+

MAJORS AND PROGRAMS

10:1

STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO

60%

KIRKLAND CAMPUS RESIDENTIAL STUDENTS

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VARSITY SPORTS

50+

PARKS AND OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL AREAS NEAR CAMPUS

10

MILES AWAY FROM DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

100% ACADEMIC PROGRAMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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P.O. Box 579 Kirkland, WA 98083-0579 ADDRESS SERVICES REQUESTED

Y L P AP !

Y L EAR

Apply by December 1 to be considered for scholarships.

Applying early will put you in the first group of students to receive financial aid, housing placement, class registration, and more.

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To apply today, simply go to northwestu.edu/apply.