Social Sciences - Student Profile - Randy Keener

Randy Keener
Sophomore, Sociology/Social Work/Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies
Lebanon, Pa.

What drew you to Hesston College?
I had heard about a good youth ministry program, and a really close community. I also wanted my education at a Mennonite School, and I liked the idea of starting at a two-year college.

What attracts you to Social Work / PJCS?
I am very interested in looking for ways to help people work through problems and conflict, without using violence. I also think that there needs to be a stronger call for Christians to stand up for the minorities, underprivileged, and undernourished. I also want to learn ways to fight for social advocacy across the United States and beyond.

How challenging are the academics in the Sociology program?
I believe the program is not designed to torture you with hours of reading and studying. Rather, its purpose is to engage the mind in topics and issues that many of us ignore and know nothing about. While this program will require some hard work, an open mind and a willingness to share will serve well.

What is your favorite Sociology course? Why is it your favorite?
I really enjoyed Intro. to Sociology. I learned a lot about social and minority groups, intergenerational relationships, how our Americanized society differs from others, and how our culture influences who we are.

Did you find opportunities for learning experiences outside the classroom?
I believe the sociology department does one of the best jobs of making education come alive outside of the classroom. Schowalter Villa, a local retirement community, serves as a place where many students volunteer time and learn.

What are the professors like in the department?
The profesors are very good in the sociology department. It was people like Dwight Roth who helped me to better understand the society we live in. He also was a great friend to me in my two years at Hesston, as he took the time to get to know me and my future goals.

What are some of your most memorable moments as a student at Hesston?
Some of my best memories of Hesston are the friends I met, as well as the teachers and classes that I took. My experience as a resident assistant and the guys I had in my mod was simply amazing. We had many crazy nights, with debates, wrestling, movies, pranks, and simply laughing and having fun together.

What are your plans for after Hesston?
I am planning on going to Goshen College where I want to major in Peace Justice and Conflict studies with a Youth Ministry minor. After that I don't know what I will do yet, but I know I want to work with people in one way or another.