Piper Kirkpatrick - Experiencing Chicago

Posted November 2, 2020 by Wheaton College
Tags: Immersive Learner

Piper Kirkpatrick '20 - Experiencing Chicago

By: McKayla Jin '23

It’s easy to get caught up in your own studies and personal life, ignoring the much larger context which you are a part of. I found myself longing for a connection to the world around me and was inspired to pursue an Urban Studies major, in addition to my Bible and Theological Studies one.

My Wheaton in Chicago (WIC) experience mirrored that of any other study abroad program, but differed in amplifying my sensitivity to the local communities within Chicagoland and beyond through a complete cultural immersion. I learned about the longstanding effects of racial and ethnic boundaries, exploring various methods of reconciliation in the brokenness my fellow brothers and sisters experienced. The introductory class, called The Social Life of Cities, challenged and expanded upon my perspective of urban life as a Southern small-town girl.

WIC also provided me the opportunity to work alongside local organizations like Sunshine Gospel Ministries, which focuses on empowering families and youth in the Southside area. The relationships I’ve formed over my year of WIC has prompted me to continue working with them post-graduation and motivated me to continue towards restoration within my community at Chicago.

Interested in the Wheaton in Chicago program? Here's more info for you! 

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Laurel Bacote

Theater in Chicago

Caroline Catanzarite

Study abroad

Hannah Hayes

Transfer student perspective