Stephen Largent, BA/MA Bioethics '23
Transfer student Stephen Largent has found a home away from home at Trinity College — one where the community is strong, the theology is sound, and the academic environment is well-tailored. The Texas native began his higher education at a community college in the south but soon felt a pull to transfer to a small Christian school where he could be challenged in his faith and grow spiritually. When Largent visited Trinity International University's campus in Deerfield, he said he fell in love. His mind was made up, and he moved to Illinois soon after. The transition experience was rich with support from admissions staff, faculty, and fellow students. Trinity’s small size meant a place full of meaningful one-on-one interactions and opportunities for genuine connection with others, both of which were crucial for incoming students like Largent. “From day one, it felt like I had been welcomed wholeheartedly with open arms,” he said. “Almost as soon as I started on campus, I had community, friends, and people helping and pushing me closer to my goals in general. I feel like Trinity is home now.”"From day one, it felt like I had been welcomed wholeheartedly with open arms . . . I feel like Trinity is home now."
Largent quickly got connected with various student groups on campus, such as Men Under God (MUG) and FREE, the student-led worship group. They offered him more opportunities to connect with others and cemented his social connections. “It was really easy to find a network of people who shared the same beliefs as me,” he explained, “and it meant a lot to be able to come on campus and not be nervous to talk about Jesus.” He became a student worker in the Alumni Relations Office and even snagged a position as a Teaching Assistant during his first semester. Largent’s expectations for a personalized college path and an environment that offered connection with professors had both been met and exceeded. His advice for anyone considering transferring to Trinity? “If you’re looking for a strong, Christ-centered college community, you won’t find a better one,” he said. “I’m from Texas, the land of Christian schools, so I know!”