Christian Tai ’27
Undergraduate Student
Words: Bella McDonald ’24
Photos: Kayla Smith
Christian Tai ’27
Business Economics and Geology Major
While nearing his high school graduation, Christian Tai ’27 only applied to Wheaton, trusting that if it was God’s will, he’d be accepted. This decision led him to his current role as a STAM (student ambassador) and a place where he could explore many interests in his search for a major.
STAMs serve as liaisons between the College’s student body and its alumni donors, attending donor events and sharing their stories with those invested in the College’s mission. Tai’s decision to become an ambassador was driven by both curiosity and a desire to help ensure students continue to receive opportunities like his at Wheaton. “I enjoy learning from other students and alumni, and I wanted to share with donors how their generosity has impacted students like me,” he said.
Thanks to the Richard D. House Geological Endowed Fund, Tai attended a geology field trip to Washington state early in his time as a Wheatie. That hands-on experience confirmed his joy in the subject and led him to take on a geology major in addition to business economics. “That trip completely changed how I view geology,” he said. ”We hiked near waterfalls, observed rock formations, and just enjoyed being in nature. My love for the outdoors grew even more.”
Tai’s time at Wheaton has also deepened his Christian convictions. Growing up a pastor’s kid in a small church, faith was central to his life. “We were the first ones at church and the last to leave,” he said. “But in high school, I started wondering: Was this my own faith, or just something I inherited? Being surrounded by people who live out their faith on campus has helped mine grow exponentially.”
Tai sees his ambassador role as an opportunity to reflect on his academic and spiritual growth while bridging the gap between donors and students. “I want donors to see how their generosity creates experiences they might never have imagined for us,” he said. “Scholarships have allowed me to learn and do things I never expected, and I want that for others, too.”
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