Gabby Unzicker ’25, didn’t have a faith-based education in mind when choosing where to attend college but says that Valpo found her and has quickly become engrained in her life. She says, “There’s a lot of hope and encouragement knowing that I went from not feeling anything personal to my faith to feeling overwhelmingly surrounded and loved by the faith community I’ve begun to call my second home in just three years.” She continues, “I get to be constantly reminded of how important my work is, even in the grand scheme of this University. I know that God has great plans for me, and they are slowly but surely being revealed to me as I become more attentive to my reflections and intentional in my care.”
Gabby’s time at Valpo has allowed her to explore her faith and how it fits into her everyday life. She says, “My faith has become a source of strength for me. It’s a reliable part of my everyday life and emotional and mental health. As I’ve explored how I define faith for myself, I’ve learned things about myself, my relationship with others around me, my perception of God’s Creation, and experienced his blessings in new ways.”
In addition to her studies, Gabby volunteers her time by serving in the Chapel each day. Of her service, she says, “I feel so fulfilled when I am serving others. Service can be done and seen in many ways: offering to carry someone’s burdens, whether they’re physical or emotional, cooking a meal for someone or a large group, or being present in each moment to notice the impact small details have on my journey and in others’ lives. All of these are examples of leading a life of service that I have been able to engage in here in the Chapel.” Gabby adds, “To be worshiping and spending every single day now in the Chapel, a place that has been a place of peace and solace, a warm and inviting home to so many other students over the decades, is so amazing.”
Even though a faith-centered education was not part of Gabby’s original college plan, she says the faith-based activities at the University are incredibly important for her and her peers. “It’s ultimately one of the things that Valpo stands for, and it has given me a much more well-rounded perspective and education than I could have received anywhere else. While I didn’t come to Valpo seeking a faith-based path, I’m so thankful that I ended up on that walk and that I have so many others who have shared that journey with me.”
Looking forward to life after graduation, Gabby knows her Valpo experience will stay with her forever. “I plan to stay connected to the Chapel after I graduate, and I know the foundation of love and faith I’ve built up in the last three years will support me in all my actions and whatever I do with my future.”
