Isaiah Whitten: Called to Study at Oxford
For many years at Northwest University, we have had the opportunity to send our students all over the world to study in their respective majors. Over the course of the last school year, NU sophomore Isaiah Whitten has been blessed with the task of representing NU at the University of Oxford as he pursues the development of his academic career. We asked Isaiah to share what his experience at Oxford has been like so far:
What was the path that you took to eventually arrive at Oxford?
Honestly, I just walked through doors that Northwest University opened. Without our University's willingness to offer me the opportunity to study, I would have never expected to end up at the University of Oxford.
How did you feel God calling you to pursue studying abroad?
The call proved very abrupt and unexpected: often God's preferred style of communication. During my Christmas break last year, an NU alum informed me about his experience with the Oxford program, and I was sold. Frankly, if it had been any other university in any other nation, I would have never considered studying abroad. The Lord did not call me to just study abroad, he called me to study at Oxford.
How have you grown as a result of being there?
I am stretched and stressed on a daily basis. Very early on, I was forced to come to terms with the fact that I will never create the perfect essay. This university challenges me to create an opinion and defend it. Every week, I literally have to argue with a world-class expert about why my interpretation is right. I am forced to mature intellectually, however, I feel significant spiritual growth. The Lord has guided me every step of the way—walking alongside the ghosts of some of the world's most intelligent people reminds me that anything is possible and that each day here is indeed a blessing.
How have you encountered God during your time at Oxford?
The experience itself is evidence of God's continual presence throughout my time at Oxford. My libraries are older than the United States. My lectures are held in buildings with one-of-a-kind architecture. I am so humbled just to take part in this history. During my midterm break, I walked The West Highland Way in Scotland and experienced colors and atmospheres that I will never forget. I have seen beauty here; I have seen God.
Has anything changed about your perspective on life while studying abroad?
Yes. My ambition for graduate school has been ignited. Before my acceptance to Oxford, life after college seemed inconsequential. Praise the Lord, I have done well so far in my undergraduate degree; however, after participating in graduate-level courses I have come to realize that I do not know as much as I thought I did.
How would you advise students who may be considering pursuing the same path that you have taken?
1) Remember that the moment you begin relying on yourself rather than Christ is the moment you will fail.
2) Pursue excellence in all that you do, and the right doors will open.
3) Forgive yourself for failing at 1 & 2, and attempt to bounce back.
We at NU believe that all students, like Isaiah, have been called to study in specific places near and far. The growth, both spiritual and intellectual, that comes from being exactly where God has called you to be is unparalleled, and we relish the chance to help our students get there.
For a full list of the study abroad opportunities that we provide, click here.