APU Articles
Commencement vs. Graduation: What's the Difference?
June 06, 2023
Most fields and institutions have their own commonly used lingo, and that’s true for the world of education, too. Some of these terms are more straightforward than others. For example, you probably know what college graduation means—but what about commencement? If you’re suddenly second-guessing yourself, read on.
Can You Take College Courses at Different Colleges?
June 01, 2023
From unexpected opportunities to pandemics, life can be unpredictable. And while you likely planned to complete your degree at one college, a variety of situations can disrupt your plans. Or perhaps you’re just looking to take a summer course at a college in your hometown. The question is, can you take college courses at different colleges?
College of the Arts Hosts Industry Spotlight at Warner Bros. Studios
June 01, 2023
Many actors and filmmakers dream of premiering their films on the big screen, but may have to wait a lifetime to get the opportunity. For Azusa Pacific University students, they only waited until the end of their senior year. APU’s College of the Arts (COTA) hosted the 2023 Industry Spotlight on May 4 at the legendary Warner Bros. studios, giving students in cinematic arts, animation, theater, games and interactive media, art, design, music, and journalism a chance to showcase their work in front of industry talent representatives and casting directors.
How Long Is a College Semester?
May 30, 2023
What Is Dual Enrollment and What Are Its Benefits?
May 27, 2023
The step from high school to college can feel more like a leap, but there are ways to soften the landing. For example, concurrent enrollment and dual enrollment (sometimes called dual credit) can help you save money during college and prepare you academically so you can show up to your first college class feeling confident and optimistic. But what is dual enrollment, exactly, and how can you get started?
Cheyenne Jimenez ’20 — The Blind Faith of a Boutique Owner
May 26, 2023
On the morning of November 25, 2022, Cheyenne Jimenez ’20 woke up at the crack of dawn, preparing for her biggest day yet as the new owner of her boutique Ariete. As she prepared the space for guests by setting out a cart of food, drinks, and a “spin and win” prize wheel, Jimenez noticed no one lining up for the event like in years past. My first Black Friday as Ariete’s new owner is a failure, she thought. Within the same minute of her perceived flop, Jimenez turned and saw the line of guests she’d been waiting for. “Ushering everybody in was crazy. I had never seen so many people in the store. It was awesome,” she said. “We were serving appetizers and the music was blaring and it was so great. It was Christmas to a tee.” Jimenez’s success that day has been a defining moment during her time as Ariete’s owner. Since then, the Riverside native has been working hard to promote her clothing boutique.
What to Do after You Graduate College: Navigating Post-College Decisions
May 25, 2023
Congratulations—you’re a college graduate! You’ve invested time, passion, and brainpower into the last few years of your life to achieve something truly commendable. You deserve to take a beat and celebrate this milestone with your friends and family.
Faculty Friday: Jenica Morin-Pascual Awarded 48th District Woman of the Year
May 19, 2023
Earlier this year, adjunct professor Jenica Morin-Pascual opened an unexpected email that brought her tears of joy. She had just been named the 2023 California Assembly District 48 Distinguished Woman of the Year. “I was in shock. I had no idea I had been nominated. I felt so honored,” she said. Morin-Pascual flew up to Sacramento with her sister and received the award from Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio ’99, ’03. “It was surreal. It was the experience of a lifetime to be amongst these amazing women. I feel blessed that I’ve had opportunities that I never imagined would come to me, just by doing something I truly love.” Morin-Pascual also received the Public Safety Woman of the Year award for the 22nd District from Senator Susan Rubio ’01.
Can You Major in Being an Influencer?
May 17, 2023
Social media influencers are on the rise, and if you’re seeking a long-term career in this type of role, you’re not alone. Still, can you major in being an influencer? While there may not be a designated major, you can take a few pathways to prepare for a career in this growing industry.
APU’s School of Business: A Leader in Innovation
May 15, 2023
Azusa Pacific University’s School of Business and Management (SBM) is constantly innovating and adapting to fit the needs of today’s students. Led by interim dean Roxanne Helm-Stevens, DBA, and a host of accomplished faculty, the SBM has expanded their offerings to provide students with ways to get ahead before they graduate.
Faculty Friday: Traci Birge — Helping Students Discover Who God has Called Them to Be
May 12, 2023
Ever since she was a child, Traci Birge, PhD, felt Jesus was real, even if she didn’t always know what that meant. As she grew up, her faith only strengthened and led her to a Christian university in Western New York. In college, however, her childlike connection to God was shattered after suffering trauma and tragedy that made her simple faith seem flimsy and incomplete. Frustrated and feeling unsettled with the answers from her youth, Birge turned to her Bible professors at Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, New York. With her professors, she found a safe place to ask her questions about God and, through the grace, patience, and instruction of her educators, she began rebuilding her faith one biblical passage at a time. Now, as a professor in Azusa Pacific University’s School of Theology, Birge gets to help students wrestling with similar questions, guiding them as they learn more about God and refine their faith. “I’m not afraid of students who ask difficult questions. Truly, the only non-faithful response is to stop asking,” she said.
Avery Burn ’24: Sharing God’s Love Through Nursing
May 09, 2023
Avery Burn ’24 is passionate about helping people. Although she didn’t know she wanted to study nursing until the end of high school, Burn is absolutely sure that she’s found her calling. Her classes at APU have strengthened her resolve that nursing is the best way she can care for others while showing God’s love. “Being a nurse aligns so well with my faith,” she said. “I came to APU because the nursing program is one of the best in the world and I wanted to have a top education while also growing through Christ- centered relationships on campus.”
Faculty Friday: Mike Wong- Transforming Students into Great PT Clinicians
April 28, 2023
During 23 years of teaching in Azusa Pacific University's Department of Physical Therapy, Michael Wong, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, has poured into the lives of thousands of students, training them to become great clinicians. Wong recently received the James A. Gould Excellence in Teaching Award from the Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy as one of the top PT professors in the country. “I was excited, humbled, and honored to receive this recognition,” he said. “But the truly special part was seeing my family, students, alumni, and colleagues who have shared in this journey with me and came to the conference in San Diego to support me. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Career Preparation: How to Write a Cover Letter
April 26, 2023
