Ruth Jansen ’17

Biography

Ruth was born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI where she developed her love for math and music. While studying at Taylor, she earned her BS in Secondary Mathematics Education while also earning a minor in Applied Voice. After graduating from Taylor, she spent 2 years in Adrian, MI teaching math and being involved productions at the local theater. In 2019, she moved to Dakar, Senegal (West Africa) to teach math at a Dakar Academy (where she actually did part of her student teaching back in 2016). She continues to use her music skills as well, leading worship for chapel and now transitioning to teach music full time next school year (though she will never forget her love for math).

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

So many of my experiences at Taylor shaped who I am today. I can see how my time as a PA taught me how to foster community living which has proved valuable as I now live in a missionary community overseas. Through community living at Taylor in general, I learned how to have amicable discussions with those with different beliefs, whether that be about theology, politics, or otherwise. I'm also so thankful for the variety of skill sets I developed through working in admissions, residence life, and in the math department.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

My interactions with my math professors encouraged me to live up to my fullest potential, but also to follow God's leading in my life. Through spending a summer doing math research under the advisement of Dr. Thompson, I learned that I could pursue graduate school if I desired. Yet when I decided to pursue a full time teaching job instead, I felt fully supported and encouraged. Yet if I ever decided to pursue graduate school again, I know I can count on my Taylor professors for a reference letter.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

My liberal arts foundational core at Taylor broadened my worldview and allows me to have educated dialogue with my colleagues and students. I can recall multiple conversations with students discussing the complexities of evolution, predestination, the reliability of scripture, homosexuality, climate change, etc. and how to view these things through a Biblical worldview. I feel like my classes at Taylor equipped me to approach these conversations confidently, but also with humility.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

Stay in touch with your classmates after graduation. During your first year teaching, it is so helpful to reach out to someone who is going through the same thing. Plus, you can give each other tips about what is and is not working in your classroom.