Our SOS Team

Abbey Danskin

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Escondido, CA

What I love about Biola
When I first visited Biola, I was immediately drawn in by the community. It is a place where people of unique backgrounds and experiences come to learn how they can use their gifts as they pursue Christ. I have met so many fun, amazing people, and I love being a part of this community of genuine Christ-followers!

Campus Involvement
SOS!!

Favorite Quote
"Define yourself as one radically loved by God. This is your true self, every other identity is an illusion." — Brennan Manning

Fun Fact
I took a glassblowing class in high school.

Favorite Smell
The smell of Christmas: pine needles, fire, mulling spices, and yummy food.

Allison Fejes

• SOS Leader

Major
Elementary Education

Hometown
Mission Viejo, CA

What I love about Biola
The community of such wonderful people

Campus Involvement
Student Orientation Services

Favorite Quote
"Fettuccine alfredo, time to carbo load!" — Michael Scott

Fun Fact
I hate anything grape flavored.

Favorite Smell
Mahogany teakwood

Alyssa Kennedy

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Grants Pass, OR

What I love about Biola
I have never been a part of a more supportive, inviting, Jesus-loving community. I love how each class incorporates faith and how the profs are always willing to answer questions and have conversations with students. Also... you can't beat the SoCal weather and being 20 minutes from the beach!

Campus Involvement
SOS Leader, Mock Rock, and I am really involved in my floor community!

Favorite Quote
"We won't be distracted by comparison if we are captured by purpose." — Bob Goff

Fun Fact
My left arm is longer than my right arm.

Favorite Smell
Either a really good cup of coffee, or the smell right after it rains!

Amanda Razzouk

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Elk Grove, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola's campus!! It is so clean and beautiful and the people of Biola complete the beauty and community. The size of Biola make it so easy to get involved and meet people that are truly seeking after the Lord and genuinely care about one another. Biola is a unique place that I am so proud to call home!

Campus Involvement
I play piano in a chapel band! I went on an SMU trip over spring break to San Francisco. I am involved on my floor :) I did Mock Rock with SOS which was super fun!!!

Favorite Quote
"I regret nothing. The end." — Ron Swanson

Fun Fact
I was due in 1998 but I was born in 1999!

Favorite Smell
cool fresh mountain air, eucalyptus, maple syrup, lavender

Amanda Root

• SOS Leader

Major
Cinema & Media Arts

Hometown
Bakersfield, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola's community and the on-campus activities such as Mock Rock.

Campus Involvement
Hide and Seek Club VP and Returning SOS leader

Favorite Quote
"The noblest art is that of making others happy." — P.T. Barnum

Fun Fact
I'm a Hufflepuff.

Favorite Smell
Clean Laundry, old books and fabric leather.

Andrew Pak

• SOS Leader

Major
Accounting

Hometown
Koreatown, Los Angeles, CA

What I love about Biola
What don’t I love about Biola?

Campus Involvement
SOS, Treasurer of Circle K International (CKI), Chapel Team, Intramural Basketball, KCM

Favorite Quote
“Trust the Process” — Philadelphia 76ers

Fun Fact
I didn’t have a phone for 3 years.

Favorite Smell
fresh bread, cookies, coffee, bbq meat, tea, vanilla, chocolate, lavender, fruits, etc

Anna Hartmann

• SOS Leader

Major
Environmental Science

Hometown
Santa Rosa, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola is one of a kind. It's 20 minutes from Disney, and if that's not your thing you got the beach or LA a drive away! Our location is great, but the main reason I love Biola is the people. Everyone you meet is so kind and genuine. The life and joy that I see in peoples' interactions is something I've only seen at Biola.

Campus Involvement
SOS Leader, Intramural Sports Participant, B.E.S.T Club Member

Favorite Quote
"There has never been a sadness that can’t be cured by breakfast food." — Ron Swanson

Fun Fact
I'm an above average juggler.

Favorite Smell
The redwood forest right after it rains, but liquid whiteout comes in at a close second.

Anneliese Duran

• SOS Leader

Major
Commercial Music

Hometown
Victorville, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community! I have met a variety of students, professors, and staff members that are truly genuine, real, and caring individuals.

Campus Involvement
SOS Leader, Custodian at Facilities Management, and Mock Rock.

Favorite Quote
"Some women fear the fire, some women simply become it." — R.H. Sin

Fun Fact
I have an obsession with dogs and breakfast foods.

Favorite Smell
Coffee/Eucalyptus

Ariana Fuyumuro

• SOS Leader

Major
Design

Hometown
Redlands, CA

What I love about Biola
The friendships I've made! There are people I've only known for a couple years and it feels like I've known them my entire life. Very thankful that Biola comes through with emphasizing the importance of intentionality within the community.

Campus Involvement
I was in the Hula Ministry my freshman year. I've also had fun playing intramural volleyball (our team name was the "Swedish Fish"), pretending I'm a cool barista whenever I work at the Talon (I'm better at heating things up in the oven). It's also my second year on SOS and I've had the privilege of leading a soul group!

Favorite Quote
"Without you, today's emotions would be the scurf of yesterday's." — Amélie

Fun Fact
I've thrown up while surfing.

Favorite Smell
4-way tie: new car, new house, wood in the back of hardware stores, & gas

Austin Gewecke

• SOS Leader

Major
Elementary Education

Hometown
Branchville, NJ

What I love about Biola
I love the size and culture of Biola. One of my favorite things is being able to walk around campus at any given time and see people that I know and be able to interact with friends all the time.

Campus Involvement
SOS and Lacrosse

Favorite Quote
"He did what in his cup?" — Mater (Cars)

Fun Fact
I like wearing overalls.

Favorite Smell
Fresh cut grass

Bethany Branderfino-Thai

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Management

Hometown
Laguna Hills, CA

What I love about Biola
Howdy! My favorite thing about Biola would have to be the teachers! Being a transfer student I really appreciate having wonderful teacher that care deeply about my education and want to see me grow not only in school but also in my relationship with God! Hmm I also really like the lawn. I love just laying out a blanket and eating or studying in the sun all around campus!

Campus Involvement
I was in Nationball, SOS, MockRock, Intermural Beach Volleyball, and I work at the Coffee Cart!

Favorite Quote
"Esse is Percipi" (to be is to be perceived) — The Pilgrim's Regress

Fun Fact
I think bears are the cutest animal in the whole wide world.

Favorite Smell
Peonies! (the flower)

Bethany Perine

• SOS Leader

Major
Elementary Education

Hometown
Spokane, WA

What I love about Biola
The opportunity to learn and grow with people from all walks of life.

Campus Involvement
I work for facilities and in Metzger.

Favorite Quote
"We are all worms, but I do believe that I am a glow worm." — Winston Churchill

Fun Fact
I have lived in 6 different cities all along the west coast.

Favorite Smell
Campfire and Ocean Water

Brendyn Carpenter

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Minden, NV

What I love about Biola
It is a very cliche answer, but I absolutely love that Jesus is at the center of all learning at Biola. It creates a very healthy environment that you can't get anywhere else.

Campus Involvement
I am an SOS leader, in Glee Club and I work for Spiritual Development.

Favorite Quote
"Ministerium Super Se" (Service Above Self)

Fun Fact
My senior year of high school I ripped around 12 pairs of pants because... well I just did, nothing else to it.

Favorite Smell
Fresh cut grass on a summer morning

Bridget Gillespie

• SOS Leader

Major
Public Relations

Hometown
Redlands, CA

What I love about Biola
What I love most about Biola is the people. I know that sounds super cliche, but everyone, from the students to the faculty, genuinely cares about each other. This was obvious to me from my first moments on campus, and I still am blown away by it now. Also, the coffee cart is a gem.

Campus Involvement
I am in PRSSA and SOS.

Favorite Quote

"Time is money, money is power, power is pizza, and pizza is knowledge." — April Roberta Ludgate-Dwyer

Fun Fact
Frogs can't swallow with their eyes open.
Also, I am two countries away from being to every content except Antarctica.

Favorite Smell
Bath and Body Works. Confession time: I have spent way too much money there.

Caitlin Adams

• SOS Leader

Major
Christian Ministries

Hometown
Roseville, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola's beautiful campus, the genuine friendships I have made, and the professors that care so deeply about their students and what they are teaching.

Campus Involvement
I love Biola's beautiful campus, the genuine friendships I have made, and the professors that care so deeply about their students and what they are teaching.

Favorite Quote
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul." — Psalm 23:1–3

Fun Fact
I also work at Nothing Bundt Cakes!

Favorite Smell
The smell of rain on the pavement

Caitlin Blackmon

• SOS Leader

Major
Public Relations

Hometown
San Antonio, TX

What I love about Biola
I love that Biola is a place where everyone brings something unique to the table, and we are able to glorify God as one body with many parts!

Campus Involvement
I currently write for the Chimes features section and love being an SOS leader!

Favorite Quote

"Bloom where you're planted." — Bishop of Geneva, Saint Frances de Sales

Fun Fact
I am the oldest of seven kids in my family!

Favorite Smell
I love the smell of warm chocolate chip cookies.

Caleb Gray

• SOS Leader

Major
Human Biology

Hometown
Mead, CO

What I love about Biola
The professors are the best. They love their jobs and their students. I get regular meetings with professors to talk about questions I have or just to talk about life.

Campus Involvement
SOS (who would have guessed), I work on campus, and I play on an intramural ultimate frisbee team.

Favorite Quote
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." — C.S. Lewis

Fun Fact
I'm a meme (not a quality one, sadly). It's on the Overheard@biola page on Facebook. It was posted a while ago, but it still occasionally pops up to make my life weird.

Favorite Smell
Rain

Carissa Tereba

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Burney, CA

What I love about Biola
I love that Biola fosters a community where every person is truly seen as an image-bearer of God. I also really appreciate how our professors teach in way that displays to us how our majors and future careers are capable of and meant to glorify God above anything else!

Campus Involvement
SOS Crew Leader; Soul Group leader; Rich Kids Comedy improv team; Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
"I have many leather bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany." — Ron Burgundy of the 2004 comedy classic 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy'

Interesting Fact
One of my biggest regrets is that I have never and, now, will never get to see Hannah Montana in concert.

Favorite Smell
The chlorine smell when you walk into Pirates of the Caribbean OR coffee

Cassandra Nevarez

• SOS Leader

Major
Music Education, Violin Emphasis

Hometown
Visalia, CA

What I love about Biola
Wow, where to begin? There is something absolutely un-replicable about the Biola community. You cannot fake or recreate the community that this university is so widely known for. I love that Biola has been more than just a school to me. It's a safe place, it's where I've met my best friends, and one of the greatest places to cultivate your faith. God is doing incredible things on this campus. :)

Campus Involvement
Biola Symphony Orchestra, SOS & Mock Rock, & (retired) Talon Barista.

Favorite Quote
"The worst thing about prison was the Dementors." — Michael Scott

Fun Fact
I'm Mexican, Samoan, Italian, with a dash of Syrian.

Favorite Smell
Anything that makes me think of summer: boat gas, sunblock, the mountains, freshly brewed coffee.

Claire Casto

• SOS Leader

Major
Art

Hometown
Wheaton, IL

What I love about Biola
The community and the biblical integration in the community!!

Campus Involvement
Intramural soccer

Favorite Quote
"Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me." — Michael Scott

Interesting Fact
I've been kissed on the forehead by a US president.

Favorite Smell
Pine trees 100%%%

Courtney Jones

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Reedley, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola’s community and the Christ centered educational opportunities.

Campus Involvement
SOS!

Favorite Quote
"Believe in your flyness, conquer your shyness." — Kanye West

Interesting Fact
I slept through my first college class. #sorrymom

Favorite Smell
Fire

Daniel Verde

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Fresno, CA

What I love about Biola
CHRIST-CENTERED COMMUNITY!!! The fact that we (students, faculty, and staff) all share in common the most important thing in the universe is AMAZING! Everyone here LOVES Jesus and this allows us to make friends so easy and rapidly. You will make the friends of a lifetime here, I promise you.

Campus Involvement
Xopoc (Biola Dance Club), MockRock 2017–2018, and involved in acting/modeling for short Biola films

Favorite Quote
"I smell like beef. I smell like beef. I smell like beef." — Katie Ryan Vine #BeefBaby

Fun Fact
I choked on a marble when I was 5, passed out, and was dead for 20 seconds.

Favorite Smell
I love the smell of fire (burning wood).

Deborah Dervartanian

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Management

Hometown
Yorba Linda, CA

What I love about Biola
Christ-centered Education

Campus Involvement
Currently work at Common Grounds

Favorite Quote
"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. — Wayne Gretzky" — Michael Scott

Fun Fact
I LOVE Sea World (my entire family has passes)

Favorite Smell
Cinnamon (Christmas) + Common Sage

Elise Semple

• SOS Leader

Major
Biological Science with Pre-Med

Hometown
Napa, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola's community. When I first walked onto campus, it felt like home.

Campus Involvement
I am a part of SOS and loving every moment of it!!!! I have also joined a few clubs on campus — the Health Careers Club and the Science & Health Mentorship Society Club.

Favorite Quote
"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched — they must be felt with the heart." — Helen Keller

Fun Fact
I have a macaw (named Philippe) and he is a compulsive liar. He will say "I love you! Come here." And then he tries to bite you.

Favorite Smell
I love the fresh smell of redwood/ evergreen forests!

Emily Salo

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
San Jose, CA

What I love about Biola
What I love most about Biola are the people, community, and the importance of spiritual growth. Right when I stepped on campus I felt welcomed and I have made the most meaningful relationships here. I also love how Biola makes it a priority to have us grow deeply in our faith during our time here.

Campus Involvement
SOS, Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
"They don't know that we know they know we know." — Friends

Fun Fact
I'm obsessed with High School musical.

Favorite Smell
The smell of rain or the beach!

Emma Velasco

• SOS Leader

Major
Cinema and Media Arts

Hometown
Champlin, MN

What I love about Biola
Chapels, SUNDAE SUNDAY IN THE CAF, professors who love Jesus and genuinely care for their students, and so many opportunities to get involved with missions, campus activities, local ministries, etc.

Campus Involvement
On-campus job, SOS, film

Favorite Quote
"There are over 400 stars in our galaxy. Maybe more. We don't know." —Shawn Spencer

Fun Fact
I am allergic to grass, cats, and Christmas trees.

Favorite Smell
lilacs or fresh paint

Estie Dragt

• SOS Leader

Major
Public Relations and Pre-Business

Hometown
Walnut Creek, CA

What I love about Biola
I love so much about Biola, but I probably love the community here the most. There are so many honest, uplifting and truly encouraging individuals on campus! Everyone is truly unique and it has been an incredible time getting to live and do school with Biolans.

Campus Involvement
SOS! Intramural Basketball!

Favorite Quote
"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around every once in a while, you could miss it." — Ferris Beuller

Fun Fact
I can wiggle my ears!

Favorite Smell
Pancakes

Garrick Talavera

• SOS Leader

Major
Cinema and Media Arts

Hometown
Palos Verdes, CA

What I love about Biola
The Community. One of my absolute favorite things about Biola is running into friends on my way to class.

Campus Involvement
SOS (Obviously), Evangelical and Mormon Interaction, and Intramural Sports

Favorite Quote
"It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." — Rocky Balboa

Fun Fact
I once bumped into Kendall Jenner at a church service in Beverly Hills.

Favorite Smell
That new car smell (heart eyes emoji)

Grant Ganther

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Redlands CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community here at Biola. Having the biblically centered education really fosters many strong relationships that will last a lifetime!

Campus Involvement
SOS, Student Employe at coffee shop, intramural

Favorite Quote
"Can I get a waffle... Can I please get a waffle." — MightyDuck

Fun Fact
I have never broken a bone... I'm sorry I'm boring.

Favorite Smell
Gasoline by far.

Hailey Boomershine

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Danville, CA

What I love about Biola
I honestly love everything about Biola. The community really makes it a special place. Everyone is so kind, genuine, and welcoming that it truly feels like home here. I also love how close Biola is to Disneyland, the beach, LA, etc. It makes weekends really fun!

Campus Involvement
I am a part of the Evangelical Mormon Interaction (EMI) club on campus that creates relationships with the LDS community both locally as well as in Utah. Over Spring Break I was part of the team that went to Utah and it changed my life!

Favorite Quote
"Don't ruin a good today by thinking about a bad yesterday. Let it go." — Anonymous

Fun Fact
I have a slight latte art obsession.. ask me about my photo album sometime :)

Favorite Smell
Maui ocean breeze

Hannah Reagan

• SOS Leader

Major
Communication Studies

Hometown
Thousand Oaks, CA

What I love about Biola
I really honestly love everything about Biola, but what I love most is the genuine, Christ-centered community. Biola is such a special place where you’ll find so many friendly, authentic, intentional, Jesus-loving people; it’s the best! Also, there are tons of great opportunities to get involved on Biola’s beautiful campus.

Campus Involvement
SOS Crew Leader, Student Ambassador (Tour Guide), Soul Group Leader and Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
“I’m packing you an extra pair of shoes, and your angry eyes, just in case.” — Mrs. Potato Head (Toy Story 2)

Fun Fact
I have an Etsy shop — twineandparcel.etsy.com

Favorite Smell
Shampoo, the Vans store, Christmas trees, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland

Jaqueline Navarro

• SOS Leader

Major
Elementary Education

Hometown
Sanger, CA

What I love about Biola
I love how students and professors genuinely love and are passionate about the Lord's work. The Caf is also pretty great.

Campus Involvement
SOS

Favorite Quote
"I like getting older. I feel like I'm finally aging into my personality." — Nick Miller

Fun Fact
When I eat at Subway, I order every option of vegetable on my sandwich and then take it off. I like the taste it leaves, but don't like the vegetable itself.

Favorite Smell
I really like the smell of dry erase markers.

Jennie Bedell

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Costa Mesa, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola for three main reasons. First is the community. People are friendly and truly care about each other. SMU is next. I have a heart for missions and travel. The nursing program is the last reason. Learning sciences is difficult but the professors care about their students, and I have made a solid group of friends.

Campus Involvement
I am involved in Global Medical Missions Association (GMMA), XOPOC Dance Crew, Student Missionary Union (SMU), SOS (haha of course), and tutoring.

Favorite Quote
"Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." — Coco Chanel

Fun Fact
I have never broken a bone but I bit off my tongue when I was four.

Favorite Smell
My favorite smells are freshly cut grass, lavender, and pumpkin, cinnamon perfume.

Jeremy Muehlhoff

• SOS Leader

Major
Kinesiology

Hometown
Brea, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola does an excellent job when it comes to integrating faith into academics. Even during my Kinesiology classes our professors still emphasize Christianity and how our faith effects the sciences, which is a unique experience when it comes to universities.

Campus Involvement
Member of Student Orientation Services (the best organization at Biola) for two years. SMU local missions team member and an Intramural ref.

Favorite Quote
"Real G's move in silence like lasagna" — Lil Wayne

Fun Fact
I once was on the same flight as Will Ferrel, and when I asked for a picture he said no.

Favorite Smell
The smell of Subway. Seriously I'll just walk in for the smell.

Jocelyn Chu

• SOS Leader

Major
Communication Studies

Hometown
Redlands, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the culture of prayer and friendship.

Campus Involvement
I did XOPOC, worked for SPA, and now SOS!

Favorite Quote
"I don't have enough money for chicken nugget" — Ayitspnayo // Vine

Fun Fact
I am both a night owl and an early bird, therefore, I rarely sleep.

Favorite Smell
Chlorine mixed with bleach

Joseph Cohen

• SOS Leader

Major
Accounting

Hometown
Woodland Hills, CA

What I love about Biola
I love that Biola is a school that combines both a great, rigorous education with a community that loves Jesus Christ. It really is so such a blessing to be able to attend a school where the faculty, staff, and students openly talk about their common faith in Christ! You grow a lot here as a person and as a Christ-follower!

Campus Involvement
Torrey Honors Institute, Accounting Society, SMU mission trip to Houston/Chicago, SOS, MANNA homeless ministry, Intramural sports, Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
“Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.” ― Augustine of Hippo, Confessions

Fun Fact
I can name every NFL/NBA title winning and losing team for each year since 2000.

Favorite Smell
volcano candle (unburned)

Jonathan Lau

• SOS Leader

Major
Human Biology

Hometown
San Ramon, CA

What I love about Biola
I really love the people here because everyone's so friendly and willing to help you, especially the professors.

Campus Involvement
SOS

Favorite Quote
"Honey, where's my super-suit?!" — The Incredibles

Fun Fact
I have a boba addiction.

Favorite Smell
Clean clothes

Joy Blea

• SOS Leader

Major
Public Relations

Hometown
Livermore, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola is such a unique place, it is hard not to love everything. I mostly love getting to live with a community of believers and receiving constant encouragement from each of my peers and professors.

Campus Involvement
I am on Xopoc Dance Crew and I helped choreograph for Mock Rock. Also, I have been actively involved with floor activities and a soul group.

Favorite Quote
"I want to be like a caterpillar. Eat a lot, sleep for a while, and wake up beautiful." — Unknown

Fun Fact
I have a birthmark on my head and it grows bleach blond hair.

Favorite Smell
Mahogany Teakwood Car Freshener

Julie Ann Vorce

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
San Diego, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola’s community! It’s such welcoming place and you always see friendly faces around campus.

Campus Involvement
SOS Leader

Favorite Quote
“My life is in the hands of the Maker of heaven” — "Nothing I Hold Onto" // Will Reagan & United Pursuit

Fun Fact
One time I got whiplash on a roller coaster and the picture took right as my neck snapped back. It’s a great photo, I’ll show you sometime!

Favorite Smell
Coffee beans

Karis Kim

• SOS Leader

Major
Communication Sciences and Disorders

Hometown
Chino Hills, CA

What I love about Biola
Community! Every person I have met at Biola has impacted my life in one way or another. I am so blessed to attend a school that values my beliefs, connects me to other like-minded students, and provides a safe environment for me to grow deeper in my faith.

Campus Involvement
SOS and National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA)

Favorite Quote
Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding. — Proverbs 3:13

Fun Fact
I have an unhealthy (but relatable) obsession with dogs.

Favorite Smell
The smell right after it rains

Kathryn Saunders

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Salem, OR

What I love about Biola
I love Biola most for its community that is grounded in Jesus. I have made so many meaningful relationships that revolved around a mutual passion for Christ.

Campus Involvement
I'm a part of SOS, of course, I have an on campus job at the coffee cart, and I have gone on an SMU mission trip and am looking to be more involved with future trips.

Favorite Quote
"Keep moving forward!" — Meet the Robinsons

Fun Fact
I don't know how to hold a pencil correctly... Hit me up if you wanna laugh at me trying to write my name like a caveman.

Favorite Smell
Super fresh chocolate chip cookies!! Such a classic.

Kim Fast

• SOS Leader

Major
Elementary Education

Hometown
Temecula, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community at Biola.

Campus Involvement
SOS and Admin assistant at Biola Youth Ministry Outreach

Favorite Quote
"It's fine, I'm fine, everything's fine." — SOS Alums

Fun Fact
I can pop my shoulders out of the socket.

Favorite Smell
Watermelon

Kyle Davis

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Fullerton, CA

What I love about Biola
The community obviously!

Campus Involvement
SOS Leader, Heritage Cafe worker

Favorite Quote
"Say something wise and your name will live forever." — Anonymous

Fun Fact
I've never been to a barbershop to get a haircut.

Favorite Smell
Old cars

Kyle Gerlach

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Management

Hometown
San Francisco, CA

What I love about Biola
I LOVE the cinnamon rolls at the Cafe on Tuesday mornings! I love the community and the opportunity to continually grow. There is something very special about the life and spirit at Biola that you will not find anywhere else. I am constantly running into familiar faces and meeting new people wherever I go! The weather is great and the surf is always good!

Campus Involvement
I am an Eagle Host for Biola’s Admissions Department, a Common Grounds regular, and the president of the Adventure Club!

Favorite Quote
“Prepare yourself for success." — Unknown

Fun Fact
Sometimes I talk to myself in third person...

Favorite Smell
Coconut surf wax

Laina Lemon

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Peoria, AZ

What I love about Biola
My favorite things about Biola are the genuine people, the community that encourages you to be yourself, and the unique Christian education.

Campus Involvement
Student Orientation Services

Favorite Quote
“Porkchops and applesauce” — Peter Brady

Fun Fact
I am ‘dentally mature’.

Favorite Smell
Rain in Arizona

Lauren Hoekstra

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Redlands, CA

What I love about Biola
THE COMMUNITY. Everyone is so nice!!!

Campus Involvement
SOS!

Favorite Quote
"Marvelously loved one, there is absolutely nothing accidental about you." — Unknown

Fun Fact
When I was 10 I fell out of a window because I was dancing too hard!

Favorite Smell
New books, coffee, gas

Maddie Miller

• SOS Leader

Major
Design

Hometown
Mesa, AZ

What I love about Biola
There is so much to love about Biola!! The incredible professors and classes, the amazing campus and opportunities to get involved, the prime location, and the Christ-centered community of students make this school such a special place!

Campus Involvement
SOS & Mock Rock (!!!), Missions Conference Staff, and Intramurals — basketball, volleyball, & soccer

Favorite Quote
"It is easy to acknowledge, but almost impossible to realize for long, that we are mirrors, whose brightness, if we are bright, is wholly derived from the sun that shines upon us." — C.S Lewis (The Four Loves)

Fun Fact
I have a cactus named spikey mikey.

Favorite Smell
Sunscreen

Matthew Chan

• SOS Leader

Major
Sociology

Hometown
Monterey Park, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community at Biola. I have made so many friends that have supported me through thick and thin. I also love the professors at Biola because they genuinely want you to succeed and are easily accessible through office hours.

Campus Involvement
I am involved in SOS and Barbell Club on campus.

Favorite Quote
"Shoot for the moon, even if you miss you will land among the stars." — Les Brown

Fun Fact
I've wanted to go to Biola ever since I was in 6th grade.

Favorite Smell
Fresh clean laundry

McKenna Parizek

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Carlsbad, CA

What I love about Biola
Loving, God-centered community and endless opportunities!

Campus Involvement
SOS & Adventure club

Favorite Quote
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Fun Fact
I once had 2 fishes, both named Kaleigh. Big Kaleigh consumed Lil' Kaleigh. The next day I fed Big Kaleigh a flower, and she died.

Favorite Smell
Fresh sourdough bread!!!

Megan Brainard

• SOS Leader

Major
Intercultural Studies

Hometown
Folsom, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola has such an amazing community; everyone is so genuine, friendly, and passionate in their pursuit of the Lord. I also LOVE my professors and my classes. I've never been passionate about what I was learning until coming here.

Campus Involvement
SMU Missions Conference Staff, SOS Staff, Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
"When life gives you rainbows, count the colors and laugh aloud." — Amanda Razzouk

Fun Fact
Last year my friends and I pranked my pastor and his family by putting nearly 1,000 tiny pictures of Jesus everywhere in their house. They are still finding them.

Favorite Smell
Campfire!

Michaela Barber

• SOS Leader

Major
Biological Sciences

Hometown
Rancho Cucamonga, CA

What I love about Biola
The community and opportunities: the people here are amazing and there's so much love for each other and inspiring love for God. The passion of integrating faith with major is a big part of the community and gives way for the opportunities to get involved on campus, with the professors, and career opportunities.

Campus Involvement
SOS, Health Careers Club, Intramural Volleyball

Favorite Quote
"And I know how important it is in life, not necessarily to be strong but to feel strong." — Christopher McCandless

Fun Fact
I collect "dad" hats.

Favorite Smell
A good chai tea latte or sunscreen

Natalie Fejes

• SOS Leader

Major
Communication Sciences and Disorders

Hometown
Mission Viejo, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola is such a unique place. I love the fact that it is a community connected by our shared faith in Jesus Christ. It is an environment that constantly challenges me to grow!

Campus Involvement
SOS, Intramural Volleyball, NSSLHA Club

Favorite Quote
"dance with my dogs in the nighttime" — Migos

Fun Fact
My favorite vines are the gothic dancing vines.

Favorite Smell
Volcano candle (unburned)

Nicholas Rumer

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Sinking Springs, PA

What I love about Biola
I love the community on campus. Everybody is so connected and tight knit. The culture here is so unique.

Campus Involvement
Intramural Basketball, Softball, and Football, Army ROTC, SOS

Favorite Quote
"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying." — Michael Jordan

Fun Fact
I am extremely terrible at spelling.

Favorite Smell
Some nice cut fresh sanded wood

Noah Curry

• SOS Leader

Major
Undeclared

Hometown
Vista, CA

What I love about Biola
The community and events

Campus Involvement
SOS member, Intramurals

Favorite Quote
"The pain you feel today, will be the strength you feel tomorrow" — anonymous; "Get that corn out of my face." — Nacho Libre

Fun Fact
Love baseball, basketball, golden retrievers, and exercise; Celebrity Crush: Jennifer Aniston

Favorite Smell
After you dry off from a good swim and you smell like chlorine. Mmmmm

Rachel Alexander

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Carlsbad, CA

What I love about Biola
It may sound super cliche, but the people! I feel so blessed to be surrounded by so many unique and beautiful human beings. Knowing that you can find people to laugh and pray with you in whatever season of life you're in is really special and I hope to never take it for granted.

Campus Involvement
Student Missions Union Global Awareness Member 2018

Favorite Quote
"You're not hardcore unless you live hardcore." — Jack Black (School of Rock)

Fun Fact
I once trained Alpacas as a summertime hobby.

Favorite Smell
Fresh Baked Cinnamon Rolls or Surf Wax

Rebecca Richardson

• SOS Leader

Major
Public Relations

Hometown
Half Moon Bay, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola because the professors are truly passionate about what they are teaching and are willing to go above and beyond for their students. We also have like 7 places to eat on campus!!

Campus Involvement
Student Orientation Services & C-League intramural Volleyball 2017!

Favorite Quote
"It was a series of very bad mistakes that happened all at once, but everything's fine and my spirits are high." — Fred Z. Randall

Fun Fact
I'm not ambidextrous. My dad just really confused me when I was younger.

Favorite Smell
Laundry detergent

Rebekah Stoltzfus

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Newberg, OR

What I love about Biola
I love the intentional community and the thriving campus life.

Campus Involvement
I am involved in Mock Rock, SOS and Soul Group.

Favorite Quote
"The world is indeed full of peril and in it are many dark places. But still there is much that is fair. And though in all lands, love is now mingled with grief, it still grows, perhaps the greater." — J.R.R. Tolkien

Fun Fact
I have never broken a bone.

Favorite Smell
The smell of cherry blossoms in the spring

Rylie Christian

• SOS Leader

Major
History, Secondary Education

Hometown
Granite Bay, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community and all the different opportunities offered to students. I also love the small class sizes and how professors actually care about their students and want to get to know them.

Campus Involvement
SOS, SMU, Mock Rock

Favorite Quote
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. — Wayne Gretsky" — Michael Scott

Fun Fact
One time, when asked to share my life story, I gave the plot of "The Sound of Music" and the person believed me.

Favorite Smell
Garage

Rylodain Mina

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
San Diego, CA

What I love about Biola
I love Biola’s strong community! I have met so many incredible and truly God-seeking people here. Whether it’s going to chapels, praying with others or even a late night Raising Cane’s run, you truly form friendships that’ll last a lifetime. I love that the community consistently challenges me to grow in Christ!

Campus Involvement
SOS, California Nursing Students' Association (CNSA), Global Medical Missions Association (GMMA), Environmental Club, Maharlika Club

Favorite Quote
“I don't think that we're meant to understand it all the time. I think that sometimes we just have to have faith.” — Nicholas Sparks // A Walk to Remember

Fun Fact
I was asked to be on Barney!

Favorite Smell
Liquid Whiteout

Sam Corey

• SOS Leader

Major
Psychology

Hometown
Fullerton, CA

What I love about Biola
Biola's campus is very open with lots of places to hang out with friends. This gives it a great atmosphere for students when they are walking to class, chapel, or the Caf. Also, the Bible classes I have taken so far have taught me so much and greatly influenced the way I look at Christianity.

Campus Involvement
I am a member of the Rich Kids Comedy improv team and work at the campus coffee shop, The Common Grounds. I also am a part of an intramural ultimate frisbee team and soccer team (although I haven't played in any of our soccer games).

Favorite Quote
"Show respect even to people who don't deserve it; not as a reflection of their character, but as a reflection of yours." — Dave Willis

Fun Fact
I love the smell of a cold basement.

Favorite Smell
A cold basement

Samantha Russell

• SOS Leader

Major
Political Science

Hometown
Oceanside, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the Christ centered community!

Campus Involvement
Mock Rock, SOS Leader, and Floor Community

Favorite Quote
"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." — C. S. Lewis

Fun Fact
I have never broken a bone!

Favorite Smell
Coffee Shop

Sam Winslow

• SOS Leader

Major
Cinema & Media Arts

Hometown
Santa Clarita, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the community at Biola! There are so many ways to get involved and meet new people. Also, one of the most special things about Biola is that with its Biblically-centered education you can grow in your faith while also growing academically. YAY BIOLA!

Campus Involvement
Student Missionary Union; SOS!!

Favorite Quote
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. — Wayne Gretzky." — Michael Scott

Fun Fact
I support pineapple on pizza.

Favorite Smell
You know those scented pine cones you find at Target during the Fall? I like that.

Sarah Beshay

• SOS Leader

Major
Human Biology

Hometown
Temecula, CA

What I love about Biola
The missions and biblical emphasis in the education we are receiving! I love how encouraged missions and ministry are!!

Campus Involvement
SOS, Student Missionary Union (SMU): Missions Conference, Evangelical Mormon Interaction (EMI)

Favorite Quote
“Don’t ever, for any reason, do anything to anyone, for any reason, ever, no matter what.” —Michael Scott

Fun Fact
My mom is from Romania and my dad is from Egypt. I was also a gymnast for 11 years.

Favorite Smell
Bakeries, lavender, the woods

Shannon Greenhouse

• SOS Leader

Major
Nursing

Hometown
Dublin, CA

What I love about Biola
I love the Christ centered community at Biola and that the people are so kind and intentional. Also, I love that the campus is small enough that I see people I know anywhere I go on campus.

Campus Involvement
Scuba Dive Club, Adventure Club, Women's Chorus, Mock Rock, and SOS!

Favorite Quote
"You never grow if you don't try." — My mom

Fun Fact
I love swimming, going to the beach, and my dream job is to become a princess at Disneyland! :)

Favorite Smell
The island smell during Soaring Over the World at California Adventure.

Tiffany Logan

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Administration

Hometown
Bellflower, CA

What I love about Biola
The community, the friendships, and the chapels

Campus Involvement
SOS, Line Dancing Club

Favorite Quote
"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." — Dr. Seuss

Fun Fact
I just moved to Carson, CA last year because my dad got a new pastoral job!

Favorite Smell
Clean laundry

Trey Armstrong

• SOS Leader

Major
Business Management

Hometown
Granite Bay, CA

What I love about Biola
The people that make up the community at Biola are tremendous. The overall vibe of campus is a great one.

Campus Involvement
SOS, Biola Brass Ensemble

Favorite Quote
"Just send it." — Anonymous

Fun Fact
I have two pet goats.

Favorite Smell
Surf Wax