Scholarship Recipient: Acacia Andersen

“Everything changed when I received my scholarship. It literally opened the door to my dreams!”

Finances are a concern for a lot of students and families. Tell us about the impact the scholarship has had on you.?

Growing up as a missionary kid, finances have always been a struggle. In addition to that, I have 5 siblings, 2 of which are also in university. Without much financial support, I wasn’t sure if college would be possible at all. However, everything changed when I received this scholarship! This scholarship has literally opened the door to my dreams! I can pursue a career that I love, in a school that I love, in a place that I love, with people that I love; and all because of this scholarship! I am forever indebted.

How has HSU impacted you?

HSU has impacted me in numerous ways. Academically, I have learned to appreciate detail and to love knowledge. My teachers are incredible, and I am just blown away by their passion for the subject, but also their love for students and desire to help them learn! It makes for such an amazing learning experience! But even though HSU has impacted me academically, it has also impacted me communally, socially, and spiritually as well! I have learned so much about what it means to walk day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute for Christ. I have learned to love, encourage, and appreciate those around me with intentionality. HSU has challenged me to get out of my comfort zone, to be a leader, to stand up for what I believe in, and to think about what I value and why. HSU has impacted me a lot, and I can’t wait for what I will learn in the near future!

How has your degree program helped prepare you for your future career calling?

I am studying Biology in order to get my Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and already I have learned so much! I am feeling more and more equipped for what I plan to do in the future!

Tell us about the impact the scholarship has had on you.

Somebody chose to donate a ton of money to students so they could study without the stress and weight of finances. This inspires me to strive for my best, to do all that I can with the time that I have. It also has inspired me to look out for those in need around me and gives me desire to be generous as well.

Tell us about your journey to HSU.

 It was a miracle. I had been debating for a long time between HSU and another school in Pennsylvania. I had applied to both, had been accepted to both, and they both had similar programs. I was completely stumped. “Lord, where do I go? Can you please make it obvious? I know you don’t always work this way, but could you just tell me directly?” When they say the Lord answers prayers, He answers prayers! A couple of weeks later, out of nowhere, a friend of mine grabbed a marker and wrote on the whiteboard: “Acacia is going to HSU.” There was no denying that! Since that, over and over God has provided here, and I couldn’t ask to be in a better place!

 What has been your greatest achievement thus far?

 My greatest achievement thus far has been getting a job. But what was even crazier was that it had been a job I had dreamed of getting! I still can’t believe I get to work there! It is such an honor!

But I think the ultimate achievement wasn’t even done by or through me; it was the price Christ paid for my life, that I could have a relationship with God and hope for eternity.

What HSU organizations have you been involved with?

A couple HSU organizations I have been involved with are the Pre-Physical Therapy Club, the Health Club, Gamma Beta Phi, the International Student Fellowship, the African Student Union, Intramurals, and others!

 What is next for you?

I am hoping to pursue my doctorate in Physical Therapy, and from there, go wherever the Lord leads!

What is your favorite Cowboy tradition?

My favorite Cowboy tradition is singing the HSU theme song. I love the unity it creates as thousands of voices fill the auditorium.

 What is your favorite study spot on campus?

My favorite study spot on campus is on the third floor of the library in the corner of two windows. Because of the two windows, it almost feels as though I am outside, under the sparkling trees and sunshine; yet, because I am inside, I also get the luxury of a cushioned chair and the privacy of a cubby desk.