“There is a lot of versatility in a liberal arts degree [so] study what you enjoy. Do well, and engage in your university experience.”
— Rhys Volkenant, BA, JD
For alumnus Rhys Volkenant (’14), the Trinity Western experience was more than what he had expected.
“It really transformed me as a whole,” he said, remembering his time at university.
“I came here for soccer,” said Rhys, who was a strong defender for the Trinity Western Spartans Men’s Soccer team, “but it really transformed me as a person.”
He especially appreciated the impact on his personal and spiritual life. As a student-athlete, he enjoyed great support from his teammates, who answered his questions about faith.
“Being able to talk with older guys on my team who were mature Christians really challenged me in my life and in my faith,” said Rhys, who benefitted from the community and accountability that came with playing varsity soccer. His faith was also strengthened through conversations and interactions with his professors.
"I have really grown as a person [more] than as a soccer player, and that’s not something I would’ve expected,” he reflected.
Being skillful in both sports and in academics, Rhys was named Male Scholar Athlete of the Year in 2014. He graduated that same year as a Religious Studies major, achieving great distinction.
A TWU education is distinctive, Rhys explains, because “it allows you to focus on your faith and your profession.”
Global perspectives
Among Rhys’ most memorable TWU experiences is a mission trip to Benin, Africa. Together with his team, he visited local churches and villages, and helped to build water wells.
The trip to Benin expanded Rhys’ perspective.
“It was amazing to see how people live in other countries, and to see their faith,” he said.
After graduating from TWU, Rhys went on to complete a law degree at UBC. He has since been working as a lawyer and is currently an Associate in a Canadian law firm.
As a lawyer in B.C., Rhys regularly helps charities and non-profits, and studying at TWU has provided him an understanding of the context and work of his clients.
Prepared for working in the legal field
Rhys says that his studies at TWU helped prepare him for working in the legal field, by equipping him both spiritually and professionally.
As a lawyer in B.C., Rhys regularly helps charities and non-profits, and studying at TWU has provided him an understanding of the context and work of his clients.
Beyond an added understanding, Rhys has learned to approach all clients in a Christ-like manner, with respect and a penchant towards service.
"It’s given me so much joy to grow in my relationship with Christ. I’ve been able to feel closer to God through this experience at Trinity and through the people that I’ve met and encountered as well."
Focused on faith and profession
Rhys believes that a TWU education has helped him become a better professional. He further believes that a Christian liberal arts education is a strong foundation for any career path.
A TWU education is distinctive, Rhys explains, because “it allows you to focus on your faith and your profession.”
“Not many places that can do that.”
“There is a lot of versatility in a liberal arts degree,” says Rhys, who went on to study law with a specialization in social justice.
Knowing that there are many paths into graduate studies or into the legal field, Rhys recommends aspiring professionals to “do what you like to do.”
“Study what you enjoy,” he encouraged. “Do well, and engage in your university experience.”
All in all, he is grateful for his time at TWU, adding, “It changed my life.”
“It’s given me so much joy to grow in my relationship with Christ. I’ve been able to feel closer to God through this experience at Trinity and through the people that I’ve met and encountered as well. It’s been really amazing, and I praise God for that.”
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is Canada’s premier Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students to establish meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. It is a fully accredited research institution offering liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has four campuses: Langley, Richmond-Lansdowne, Richmond-Minoru, and Ottawa. TWU emphasizes academic excellence, research, and student engagement in a vital faith community committed to forming leaders to have a transformational impact on culture. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.
For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.
Photo by Jose Vazquez on Unsplash.
The views expressed by students and alumni are their own. They do not necessarily represent the views of Trinity Western University or of any other companies, groups or organizations named.