Jonathan Sabella
Class of 2012
Hometown: Prague, Czech Republic
Major: Pre-Law, International/Multicultural Studies
Jonathan Sabella wears many hats as an Evangel University student: Social Sciences department senator, international study trip student leader and intern to a congressman in Washington D.C. As a missionary kid from Austria and the Czech Republic, Jonathan is pursuing a pre-law degree, focusing on international government. Because of his experience in international relations, Jonathan is student-leading a study trip to Austria and the Czech Republic this summer. He is excited about the numerous hands-on opportunities Evangel University has provided for him and is tremendously thankful to gain this experience in his field. As Jonathan advances in his educational achievements, he also recognizes that “the unmistakable presence of God on campus” has impacted his life in more ways than he ever imagined possible.
Why did you choose Evangel?
There were many factors in my choosing to come to Evangel: It offered the majors I was looking for, the admissions counselors were friendly, the school answered my questions immediately, and they were willing to work with me on financial aid. Besides all of these things, I ultimately chose to come to Evangel because I felt in my heart that this is where God wanted me to be. And so far, God has blessed me tremendously in coming here.
How did you decide on your particular areas of study?
Throughout high school, I changed my mind on my future career daily. A few months before starting college, I learned about the possibilities of studying international law and knew almost instantly that field was my calling. I love history, world events, politics and the law, so my pre-law and international studies majors are a perfect fit for me.
As an MK, what adjustments did you have to make when you came to Evangel?
I guess one of the biggest adjustments was getting used to being so far away from family. Most people’s parents are a few hours away, mine are a whole continent away.
Do you feel that the Evangel community helped make that transition easier for you?
While Springfield might not be the most exciting city in the world, Evangel is a great place for MKs to come and readjust to America because the students and faculty are generally open to and accepting of people with different backgrounds. In addition to the open and accepting atmosphere, the school offers the Nomads club which is exclusively for Missionary Kids, Third Culture Kids and International Students. The club boasts a great community of international students that provide a crucial support base for anyone who needs to adjust to living in the States.
What are the benefits of attending a smaller university?
One-on-one interaction with the professors! Being in a small university gives you such a unique opportunity to learn from your professors on a more personal level than you could ever achieve on a large campus. Professors know their students by name and most professors have an open-door policy where you can come in and talk to them about anything. The relationships that I have developed with my professors are invaluable to me, and I know that they will be lifelong friends.
What do you do as the Social Science Department Senator?
As the Social Science Department Senator I represent the students with social science majors and the department professors in the ESGA Senate. My job is to draft bills relevant to campus life, let my constituents know important legislation going through senate and get their feedback so that I can best represent them when it comes time to vote.
As the student organizer for the Austria/Czech Studies Trip, what things do you hope to accomplish?
The Austria/Czech trip is going to be phenomenal! I am really excited at how it is turning out. The main goal of the trip is to teach students about International Diplomacy, International Business and International Communications as well as coming to a better understanding of the diverse cultures and history of Europe. The trip will be two weeks long and will be centered in Vienna, Austria and Prague, Czech Republic. Some of the highlights of the trip will be touring the United Nations in Vienna, visiting OPEC (one of the world’s largest oil organizations) and Radio Free Europe (a broadcasting network that provides news to Eastern European, Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries where a free press is banned by the government.)
Could you tell us about your internship to Washington D.C. this spring?
For spring break this semester, I will be interning in Washington D.C. at the office of Congressman Rob Andrews (D-New Jersey). This is part of Evangel's annual Washington Studies Program. I’m excited at this chance to experience first-hand what it’s like to work in Washington and to get a better understanding of what goes on in the office of a congressman.
What are your personal and career goals after college?
I plan to attend law school where I will focus on international law. I hope to work either for the State Department as a diplomat or for a non-profit humanitarian organization like the International Justice Mission that works in fighting human trafficking.
Why should a prospective student choose Evangel?
For all the reasons listed above. I do not know any other school that offers so much to its students: Washington internships, international studies trips, a prestigious student government, close relationships with talented and knowledgeable professors and so much more! All of this is bettered by the unmistakable presence of God on campus and the clear enthusiasm of students to prepare for and to fulfill, to the best of their abilities, God’s calling on their lives.
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