Get to know Natalie

Where are you from?

Springfield, MO

Major in College?

Biology

What activities were you involved in at JBU?

Growth Groups, Honors, Student Events & Activities, MOSAIC.

What are your favorite things to do in NWA?

Hands-down, my favorite thing about NWA is all the cool coffee shops. I loved going on day-trips with friends on the weekends to other towns and exploring new cafes. Another favorite is spending time along Sager Creek, which goes right behind campus and is so pretty in the early mornings when the sun is rising. There are so many beautiful, relaxing outdoor spaces near campus.

What’s your favorite book?

I have to admit, I’m not a huge reader, but I do love Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, as well as the Divergent series.

What’s your favorite game?

My favorite games right now are Chicken, Cover Your Assets, and Monopoly Deal. They are so fun to play in a group, and they’re easy to get the hang of!

Describe your family?

My whole family lives back home in Springfield, MO, but I’m thankful to not be too far here in NWA. I have one older sister who works in law enforcement and is married, so yay brother-in-law! The three of us love to go get tacos and boba together. My parents live on some acreage, where our dog, Chewie, loves to run and chase deer. You’ll typically find us in the kitchen cooking or baking something. I am also really close with my cousins, who all mostly live in Springfield. I am the youngest grandkid, so now I have the joy of watching my cousins have kids of their own. They are some of my closest friends! I have been blessed with the most loving, supportive family.

What quick advice would you give an incoming JBU student?

I would encourage you to reach out to your professors, club advisors, or other staff members that you see around campus. Get coffee or lunch with them, and learn from them. Some of my professors and my boss became my closest mentors, and now friends. Also – don’t be afraid to reach out to new church families. While it can be scary to take someone up on the offer to come over for dinner, take a leap of faith! They might just end up being your best friends.