Sydney Frager

Admissions Counselor for students from Washington County, AR, Texas, Oklahoma, and the Eastern U.S.

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Get to know Claire

Where are you from?

Nacogdoches, Texas

Major in college?

English—Creative Writing Emphasis and Biblical & Theological Studies

What activities were you involved in at JBU?

During my time as a student at I co-founded and managed the university literature and creative art journal, Shards of Light. I also attended and presented at a variety of conferences as part of my time in the Honors Scholars Program. Some of my favorite activities at JBU were serving as Growth Group leader and a Gateway Mentor.

Why are you working at JBU?

I knew I loved JBU from the first moment I set foot on campus. JBU has been such an integral part of my faith and academic journey and quickly became home to me. There’s something really powerful about the way the JBU community cares for one another, and I knew I wanted to be able to share that with others!

What’s your favorite thing to do in NWA?

My perfect Saturday is spent sleeping in until around 9:30 or 10, and then getting up and heading to the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market with some friends. After parking near the square where the market is, I always head to Savoy Tea to get an iced Ozark Sunset tea and bring it with me while I shop at the Farmer’s Market. Ending the day in Bentonville at Crystal Bridges is always a huge plus, too!

What are some movies you enjoy?

My favorite animated movie is, hands down, Megamind, and I’ll always rewatch the Pitch Perfect or Hunger Games series. Other than that, I’m down for most any movie as long as it isn’t terrifying.

Describe your family.

My family is a lot of fun and we all live pretty close together. My mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother all live together, so when I go back to Texas there are 4 generations in one house! My sister is also a student at JBU, so it’s fun to live near her.

What quick advice would you give an incoming JBU student?

It might seem crazy, but actually honor the practice of Sabbath. I know it feels like you won’t get everything done, but you’ve been designed to rest, and Sabbath is a gift from the Lord. I wish I had begun actually practicing the discipline of Sabbath way earlier in my college career. Your homework will get done as long as you’re diligent, but you’re more than just a student and you need rest!

Claire Johnson
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Get to know Sydney

Where are you from?

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Major in College?

Elementary Education with a minor in Christian Ministry & Formation

What activities were you involved in at JBU?

Growth Groups, Intramurals, Study Abroad, Honors

What are your favorite things to do in NWA?

Discovering NWA is so much fun! I've enjoyed checking out numerous coffee shops, each offering a unique experience. Outdoor adventures are also a favorite, whether it's walking  the trails at Crystal Bridges, exploring Devil's Den State Park for a sunrise hike, or spending time on the JBU trails after work. There is always something new and fun to find!

What’s your favorite book?

This is a hard question! If I could only choose one book I would have to go with The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

What’s your favorite game?

I think my top two favorites would be Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride, but there are so many other fun ones like Coup, Scattergories, and Code Names.

Describe your family?

I have been blessed with a loving family that even despite all of us not living in the same state, we remain super close. I have one older sister who also graduated from JBU – she’s actually the reason I ended up here! My sister and I now live in NWA while my parents still live in Colorado Springs. Even despite the miles between us, we prioritize spending time together with all 4 of us. When together we love to go hiking, play pickleball, go on picnics, drive through the mountains, play games, and watch movies together. I also can’t forget the 5th member of my family: my 15 year old dog, Cassie!

What quick advice would you give an incoming JBU student?

Take risks! Join a club or group you aren’t sure about, study abroad in a different country, push yourself to grow spiritually, physically, emotionally within community! I have met some of my closest friends by being willing to get out of my comfort zone.

 

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