Faith in Formation: Edwina Mwangi’s Story Studying Alongside Husband is a Treasure

For Edwina Mwangi, studying at Trinity International University (TIU) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and one that helps her deepen her relationship with God.

“Trinity has walked alongside me in my journey of faith,” she says. “Various programs for personal and corporate spiritual formation, such as the Trinity African Fellowship and the weekly chapel services, have helped me grow closer to God and stay in fellowship with others.”

Edwina was born and raised in Kenya. She earned a master’s degree in educational studies from Africa International University (AIU) and is currently a doctoral student in educational studies at the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), where she explores her research interest in meaningful work faith and studies alongside her husband, Wainaina.

“I love that my department offers me many opportunities to practice (with feedback) what I am learning in class and explore things out of my comfort zone,” Edwina says. “Trinity has been an excellent place for me to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone.”

What initially drew Edwina to TEDS was its strong reputation.

“When applying to Trinity, I thought back to my experiences as a student’s spouse and all the stories I had heard about TEDS, and I could imagine myself as a Trinity student,” she says. “I also chose Trinity because of how fondly my thesis advisor at AIU spoke of his time at Trinity and the teachers he had.”

The scholarship Edwina received also impacted her decision to attend. “The scholarship has helped relieve the financial burden on me and my family, which has allowed me to focus on my studies easily,” she says. “Trinity’s generosity motivated me to start my studies and to excel in them.”

Finally, Edwina desired to attend a school with a strong Biblical focus, outstanding academics, and a diverse student body. “Trinity offers that,” she says.

During her time as a TEDS student, Edwina has appreciated the collaborative academic culture, student diversity, and opportunities to explore outside her comfort zone. “I adore that my classmates come from different professional backgrounds, cultures, and countries, allowing me to interact with people from many walks of life,” she says. “This is an experience I would not be able to have if I studied in my home country. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I would not trade for anything.”

Studying alongside her husband and growing in their faith together is an added bonus. “Even though our research interests and course selection are drastically different, the reality is our relationship has been a source of support and motivation,” Edwina says. “Having someone you can turn to discuss daily highlights and demanding situations has helped me manage the many student demands. My husband is a special comrade in this academic journey.”

Once they graduate, the couple plans to move back to Kenya, where Edwina hopes to work as a higher education administrator.

“With a lifelong passion for teaching and learning, I also aspire to engage in formal, non-formal, and informal teaching spaces,” she says. “In addition, my research concerns are primarily focused on marketplace leaders and meaningful work, so I will also be engaged in forums focused on the intersection of faith and work.”