Rylan Christopher
Hometown: Chico, CA
College Attended: Westmont College
Degree: B.A. in Economics and Business
Favorite Spot on Campus: I have a few favorite places for different reasons, but one that has really stood out to me has been Magnolia Lawn. Located right outside of our library with incredible ocean views, this is my favorite spot for getting homework done, hanging with friends, or even just taking in a beautiful sunset. Outside of Magnolia Lawn, my second favorite has to be the Dining Commons. With a consistent selection of some of my favorite food, this spot fostered so many amazing memories for me during my time at Westmont.
Favorite Aspect of Westmont: During my time as a student at Westmont, my favorite aspect was definitely the community. Not only was I surrounded by an intentional and loving community that was presented by fellow students on campus, but I also found strong connections with staff and faculty. Smaller class sizes allowed me to really get to know my professors on a personal level, which not only boosted my academic experience, but also allowed me to be seen for my professional qualities as well. The extra room to get to know my professors has pushed me academically and professionally in a way that has opened opportunities for me left and right as I grow in my faith, education, and career.
Favorite Westmont Memory: The best memory from my time at Westmont has to be our annual tradition of Spring Sing. The event is held at the Santa Barbara Bowl, where all of our dorm halls compete in a skit competition. Not only does this spur quite a bit of fun dorm rivalry, but coming together with all my neighbors in the hall week after week to perfect our performance and finally have it all come together on stage was an awesome statement of what we can do together in community. This opportunity for all students to get engaged in such a big-scale student activity really presents every student with an opportunity to put their creativity on display, and every year the performances are impressively fun.
Why Do You Work at Westmont?: During my college search, I found myself going way out of my way during a busy year of classes to really check out my different options. In that process, my admissions counselor at Westmont went above and beyond to meet me where I was and treat me to coffee. Connecting with me personally was not only a characteristic of hers, but something that all people have greeted me with in my time at Westmont. Being presented with the opportunity to turn around what has been done for me and connect with students in order to bring them to the gracious community that Westmont has been for me is nothing short of an honor.
Hobbies: I am a very big outdoorsman, so many of my hobbies pertain to being outside in nature. Here in Santa Barbara, you will commonly find me at the beach, slacklining or on my longboard if I am not already playing beach volleyball or spikeball with friends. On my weekends, I try my best to travel to local national parks for backpacking and camping in the summer. When the snow picks up, I am quick to pack up my skis and find the best powder. Outside of that, in my free time here on campus, you will find me playing Settlers of Catan with friends and watching classic movies.