Rebecca Tozzie, a dedicated musician from West Palm Beach, FL, is currently pursuing a Performance diploma in Violin at Boston University. As she approaches her final year in the program, Rebecca reflects on this distinguished experience, “ultimately, the program is aimed to help me improve as a musician and gain more instruction one-on-one, which is invaluable,” she notes, highlighting the rigorous curriculum that includes required musical classes alongside private lessons and elective choices.

With a Master of Music from East Carolina University already under her belt, Rebecca views this program as an extension that allows her to focus on performance aspects rather than solely academic pursuits. One of Rebecca’s highlights from her program is the yearly orchestra performance at Symphony Hall where the Boston Symphony Orchestra takes the stage. Rebecca fondly recalls last year’s performance of Mahler’s 2nd Symphony, describing it as a “profound” experience that left a lasting impact. “The hall was sold out and the audience clapped mid-performance and were so enthusiastic,” she reminisces. Looking ahead, Rebecca envisions a future where she either stays in Boston to teach and perform or pursues a doctorate degree in music, with Boston University remaining a top choice.

Rebecca initially discovered ABF through word-of-mouth within her church community, dating back to her undergraduate years at Florida State University. Reflecting on her decision to reach out to ABF, she shares, “I’m so grateful for the generosity ABF provides for students.” Throughout her partnership with ABF, Rebecca has found the experience to be exceptionally positive, highlighting the organization’s responsiveness, communicativeness, and approachability. Moreover, Rebecca’s journey with Christian Science has been intricately woven into her academic and musical pursuits. She views her practice sessions as a form of prayer, going beyond physical limitations and delving into “that knowledge which ultimately comes from God and is universal and given to all.” Living in the Asher House in Boston and regularly attending services at The Mother Church, Rebecca navigates the competitive landscape of the music industry, noting that her practice of Christian Science has provided her with a sense of grounding, allowing her to embrace her unique musical voice supplied by God.

Ellie Pierce, a driven senior at Northern Arizona University, is on a captivating academic journey fueled by her passion for environmental sustainability and psychology. As an assistant lab technician at The Center for Ecosystem Science and Society, Ellie delves deep into the intricate world of soil science, analyzing samples and unraveling the mysteries of post-fire soil health. Her unique double major reflects her holistic approach to environmental solutions, recognizing the indispensable connection between human behavior and ecosystem restoration. Looking ahead, Ellie’s aspirations extend far beyond the confines of academia as she dreams of embarking on a journey to the Czech Republic, her family’s homeland, to reconnect with her roots and explore the landscapes of Europe. Inspired by her passion for regenerative agriculture and soil science, Ellie envisions a future where she empowers conventional farmers to embrace sustainable farming techniques, placing soil health at the heart of their practice.

Ellie’s study of Christian Science has been transformative, offering comfort and guidance in moments of uncertainty. Facing setbacks such as the unexpected loss of university grants, Ellie found herself grappling with feelings of abandonment and frustration. Yet, through her practice of CS, she found God meeting her needs, recalling her mother’s comforting words, “God never abandons His children.” Letting go of her human will, Ellie embraced her trust in God’s guidance, leading her to a dream job that not only provided financial stability but also enriched her understanding of her field, creating invaluable connections and paving the way for potential research publications. Reflecting on this transformative experience, Ellie affirms, “I wouldn’t be where I am without CS.”

Ellie expresses boundless gratitude to ABF, recognizing its support not only in alleviating financial burdens but also in fostering a sense of community. Facing the daunting prospect of college expenses, Ellie reflects on the stress she felt, torn between the weight of potential loans and the determination to secure her education. With ABF’s substantial support, Ellie proudly anticipates graduating debt-free, a feat she considers a significant relief. She shares, “It’s such a good way to start this next chapter. I can figure out what I’m really interested in and get my Masters sooner than I thought. It feels like freedom!” With plans to pursue further education in Europe and immerse herself in diverse farming philosophies, Ellie seeks to bridge the gap between different hemispheres, enriching her understanding of farming practices and values. “I want to be in a place where I can be of best use and give the most,” she reflects, epitomizing her commitment to creating positive change in the world.

De Neil Bibilas, living in Brazzaville in the Republic of the Congo, is currently embarking on her first year of studies in hotel and restaurant management. She acknowledges the integral financial assistance she’s received from The Albert Baker Fund (ABF) in pursuing this career path. In her studies, De Neil cherishes team spirit and building strong connections with customers; these aspects really bring her joy. A huge part of her motivation comes from the Christian Science teachings about loving and serving everyone. This foundation has filled her heart with compassion, inspiring her to commit daily acts of kindness and to live out the lessons she is learning in Sunday School.

De Neil’s relationship with ABF started when she learned about the organization’s commitment to financially support students of Christian Science. A fellow Sunday School student introduced her to ABF, which subsequently provided the essential financial support for her dream career in hotel and restaurant management. The practice of Christian Science has profoundly influenced De Neil’s approach to her studies, nurturing her drive to warmly welcome and serve individuals in alignment with Christ’s teachings. De Neil offers heartfelt gratitude for the role ABF is playing in her life, viewing the organization as a divine grace that propels students like her forward. She expresses deep appreciation for Mary Baker Eddy’s discovery of Christian Science, which has unveiled countless blessings in her life. De Neil shares, “I am so grateful to Christian Science and ABF for all they do for me and for us. I don’t know how to thank ABF enough. As it is written, ‘love is reflected in love.’”

Tyler Flavin is a Christian Science Nurse at Broadview in Los Angeles, California. His path has been an unconventional one. After graduating college and with the uncertainty of the pandemic at that time, Tyler found himself at a crossroads. While his original plan was to pursue music and acting, the summer after graduation he worked at the Christian Science youth camp, Owatonna. After a summer filled with prayer and listening, he decided to listen and follow God’s plans. While listening, the thought came to explore becoming a Christian Science Nurse.. This thought seemed totally out of left field for Tyler. He recalls thinking, “How could I do something like that? It was so far off the spectrum from what I thought I could do.” The more he prayed about it, the more it felt right, so he jumped in headfirst, trusting God’s direction. Tyler accepted a nine-month Christian Science Nursing Youth Service Corps paid internship.

During the past two years of Christian Science nursing, there have been numerous experiences that reaffirm Tyler’s decision to enter the field. A standout moment for him was the first time he was alone with an agitated patient who needed immediate help. Through prayer and reading together, he helped the patient calm down, find peace, and sleep. Tyler shared that he is learning so much about God as Love from his career in Christian Science nursing. Tyler shared: “Nursing has been everything that I needed and what I was looking for. I wanted to get to know God and help my neighbor. It has fulfilled me in every way.”

In his words, he found the “pearl of great price” that will forever remain with him. Tyler is filled with immense gratitude for support from The Albert Baker Fund (ABF), which beyond just helping him further his education, has also equipped him to provide better patient care. He feels that ABF’s support has been instrumental in both his career and spiritual growth, enabling him to assist other nurses and patients more effectively.

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After graduating from Principia College, Colby spent six years working as a journalist, diligently chronicling the politics and policy of climate change. He decided to pursue an MBA at the University of Texas in Austin (McCombs School of Business) because he wanted to make a more direct impact on the climate crisis by pivoting from just reporting on energy to working in energy.

Colby has found the graduate program to be an “incredibly transformative experience professionally, personally, and spiritually.”

During his first year in the MBA program, Colby took advantage of the many energy-related opportunities offered. He served as vice president of education for the CleanTech Group, a student organization; planned a curriculum for incoming first-year MBAs; and participated in an international competition. He also completed two consulting projects for companies in the electric vehicle sector, which gave him real-world experience that directly led to his internship last summer with an integrated power company.

He said: All of these opportunities have not only educated me and given me hands-on experience, but they have taught me how to work with others and have given me opportunities to demonstrate my ‘Christian character’ (see Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 291).

Wisdom Thomas is our featured student for October/November! A recent graduate from St. Mary’s College of California, he majored in business analytics and finance, and actively participated in track and field events all throughout his academic years. He now works as a financial auditor with Deloitte, and has aspirations to delve into cybersecurity and internal auditing in the future.

Through ABF, Wisdom has forged significant connections that have transcended mere academic or professional ties, demonstrating the expansive nature of the Christian Science community. He shared, “I have a whole network of people I can reach out to anytime I want to talk about anything.”