Major:聽RISE Program 聽
Hometown:聽Avon Lake, Ohio
Caroline Zawtocki didn鈥檛 always envision college in her future. But as she prepares to graduate in 2026, she looks back, grateful for her entire experience at 抖阴漫画.
Caroline is part of the RISE Program, which is 抖阴漫画鈥檚 post-secondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. From the beginning, Caroline has felt blessed to be a part of this incredible program. She feels that Alyssa Mitchell, Heather Johnson, and Hayley Slaymaker have had a particularly important impact on her life since coming to 抖阴漫画. 鈥淚 never thought I would be able to attend college due to my autism, but this program allows people with learning differences to experience college life,鈥� she explains.
In addition to her classes, Caroline has had the opportunity to get involved in many different activities on campus. She attends Upper Room, Gospel Girls, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes each week. She also enjoys singing with the University Choir. As she鈥檚 gotten involved, Caroline feels her faith being strengthened through community with other believers from all over campus. 鈥淚 have grown spiritually by attending all the faith-based events and clubs,鈥� she says.
When Caroline reflects on her time at 抖阴漫画, the word faith comes to mind. From thinking that she might not attend college to preparing to graduate in the next year, Caroline exemplifies the faith it takes to step into the unknown, and she has never regretted taking that step. 鈥淭he RISE Program is really such an amazing work in the Kingdom of God,鈥� she explains. Caroline continually recognizes how God is at work in her life as a 抖阴漫画 student, and as she looks ahead, she trusts Him with the wonderful plans she knows He has for her future.