Is a private Christian college education worth it?
For these graduating students, the answer is a resounding yes. Their experiences reveal that the value of a Christian university goes far beyond earning a degree.
Through personalized learning, meaningful mentorship, spiritual growth, leadership opportunities and career preparation, they discovered an education that shaped both their professional futures and their personal faith. Their stories offer a firsthand look at the lasting impact and return on investment of a private Christian college education.
Forrest Gray
B.A. in Business Administration – Marketing
“My time at FPU has allowed me to grow in my studies as well as my faith. All of my professors took time to get to know me and make sure that I understood the curriculum. I am majoring in business marketing, and I know that this degree will be useful in my teaching career after college. This degree has developed my ability to speak in public, negotiate and sell myself.
“Being involved on campus with FCA and student leadership has allowed me to make new friends and connect with people in meaningful ways. I am so glad that I chose FPU as home for these last four years.”
Jordan Soliz
M.B.A.
"Choosing FPU’s M.B.A. was a transformative decision that challenged me to grow both professionally and personally. Building on my experience working in education, the program strengthened my strategic thinking through hands-on learning, real-world simulations and rigorous analysis, equipping me to lead with greater resilience and purpose.
“What makes this experience truly valuable is the focus on values-centered leadership—learning not just how to lead, but how to lead with integrity and intention. This degree is more than a credential; it’s a foundation that will continue to shape how I build, lead and make decisions moving forward.”
Malia Mitchell
B.S. in Kinesiology
“My education at FPU was worth it because it presented various opportunities and resources to me that helped further my goals and aspirations. Because of FPU, I was able to become involved with different leadership roles (Resident Assistant, FCA, SAAC) to connect with the community and utilize my strengths of service, developing and learning. I developed deep connections with faculty who encouraged and assisted me in my efforts towards graduate school and applying myself throughout my undergraduate journey.
“I also made many valuable, lifelong friendships through the close-knit community. Through the connections I built, I felt supported, which prompted a sense of belonging at FPU. As a result, I have been accepted to University of St. Augustine of Health Sciences, where I will continue my educational career to earn my doctorate in physical therapy. I am grateful for my time at FPU and all that it has blessed me with.”
Ryan Braam
B.A. in Business Administration - Management
“I came to FPU eager, excited and a little bit ignorant. I knew who I was but wasn't sure how I fit into the world. Now, I think I still hold the same eager nature and excitement towards the world. However, I have a better sense of who I am, what my identity is and who I want to be moving forward.
“The community at FPU has been everything in shaping who I am today. With all the groups I'm involved in, it's allowed me to get advice from so many mentors and be shaped by everyone around me. I have been able to take the best of what FPU has and help it mold me. And the friendships that I built will last a lifetime. I’ll carry them with me for the rest of my life.”
Giselle Camacho
B.A. in Communication
“As a student at FPU, my experience has been shaped by both challenge and growth. Pursuing a double major while completing my degree in just three years required discipline, time management and commitment. Living on campus allowed me to fully engage in the university community, build meaningful relationships and take advantage of the supportive, close-knit environment FPU is known for. In addition, working on campus helped me develop professional skills, responsibility and a deeper connection to the university.
“One of the most impactful parts of my journey was studying abroad in Costa Rica. That experience opened my perspective, exposed me to new cultures and helped me grow both academically and personally. Altogether, my time at FPU reflects the value of its education pushing students to excel academically while also encouraging personal development, global awareness and a strong sense of purpose.”
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